This is my Run With Paula race era and I’m really loving it! Fresh off running the Helvetia Half in June, I was back for more fun this 4th of July for the 2026 Independence Day races at Champoeg Park.
There are lots of races to choose from in Oregon, and many do another big 4th of July race every year, but I personally love the vibe of all of Paula’s races and Champoeg Park is such a lovely place to bust out those miles. Plus you always know you’ll get a fed a decent meal when you’re done and you’ll truly feel like family while you’re there. There are so many people that come out for all of the Run With Paula events, and it’s a real testament to the community that’s been built.
This year, the weather gods were on our side, with temps in the 60’s. There have been many years where races on the 4th have been hot and humid, even early in the morning, but this year we had a perfect weather day. I wore a tank top and shorts, and I didn’t feel chilled standing around before the race, but I also never felt overheated during the half marathon, despite the fact that many of the park trails do not get a lot of tree coverage.
I got to the race venue obnoxiously early, but that’s just me and my nerves and worry about something happening race morning to make me late. The trip to get there was a scenic drive, and the crew was waiting when I arrived, ready to wave me into a field to park.
Runners need a parking pass to get into the park unless they have an annual state park pass, but those of us who went to packet pick up at Portland Running Company the day before were able to purchase one there in advance.
I met up with some friends and before we knew it, it was time to go. All of the half marathoners, 10k runners, and 5k participants start together at 8AM and it can be a bit crowded taking off down the path, but I never felt bottlenecked or had to move aside to let anyone pass.
There were a few speed demons behind us that came tearing through, but those are the people that probably should have gotten to the race earlier or started closer to the front.
The course for this race is really lovely. The entire route is along gently rolling hills on well-maintained paved paths that weave throughout the park. Runners are treated to views of the south bank of the Willamette River, the natural wetlands, some peaceful meadows, and the forested trails.
There were plenty of aid stations along the course as well, stocked with Gatorade and water, and despite the fact that there were several places I could easily get lost if out there alone, it was well-marked and easy to follow so long as you were paying attention.
There are some areas of the course that half marathoners will pass more than once, but because it’s so pretty out there, I doubt anyone really minds seeing all those pretty flowers in the meadows a second time. Plus, there are many opportunities to see runners ahead and behind you out there on the course, and I just personally love being there to cheer on people and slap some high fives too.
After the race, there’s a race photographer right there waiting at the end to get a picture of you with your medal and there’s plenty to drink and eat. Though hotdogs are a traditional 4th food, I was really happy as a vegetarian to find there were also garden burgers. There were also chips and the absolute best watermelon ever, which is JUST what every race finish should have waiting at the end.
All of my friends finished happy and satisfied. It was such a great way to celebrate our country’s 250th anniversary!
