Fifteen years is a big deal. In the world of local running events, making it to year 15 says a lot about a race, its community, and the people behind it. The annual Ladybug Run for CDH Awareness has now been around even longer than Run Oregon in its current form, and it honestly feels like we’ve grown alongside this event over the years. That’s something we’re proud of, because this grassroots race continues to represent exactly what the local running community should be about: family, community, and rallying around a meaningful cause.
On July 11th, the Ladybug Run returns to Cook Park in Tigard to celebrate its 15th anniversary, and after last year’s record-setting turnout of nearly 900 participants, the goal this year should be simple: make it even bigger.
Whether you’re a seasoned runner chasing a fast 10K, a parent pushing a stroller, a family looking for a fun summer outing, or someone simply wanting to support an incredible cause, this race has a place for you. There are options for just about everyone, including a 5K walk, 5K run, 10K run, 10K relay, virtual race options, and kids’ races ranging from the free Diaper Dash all the way up to a mile.
The course itself remains one of the more approachable and scenic summer events in the area. Participants wind through paved park trails along the Tualatin River with plenty of shade, open green space, and just enough challenge to keep things interesting. There’s one notable hill, but overall the course stays stroller-friendly and accessible. The 10K runners also get a short section of forest trail mixed in for a little extra variety.
One thing we’ve always appreciated about the Ladybug Run is how welcoming it feels. This isn’t one of those intimidating race environments where newcomers feel out of place. It’s community-focused from start to finish, with staggered starts helping keep the course comfortable for runners and walkers of all paces.
And of course, the reason behind the event matters most. Proceeds benefit the Ladybug CDH Foundation, which works to raise awareness about Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia (CDH), fund medical research, and support families throughout the Pacific Northwest facing the realities of this life-threatening birth defect.
Even if you can’t make it to Tigard on race day, consider signing up virtually to help support the mission. But if you can make it out? Fifteen years deserves a celebration!