Although this year’s Runaway Pumpkin Half Marathon on October 21st was only the second time I’ve run the race, it’s safe to say that this is one of my favorite events. First of all, the race is a fundraiser for ABC House, a child abuse intervention center serving Benton and Linn counties. The organization, the volunteers, the logo, the swag, and especially the course make this a must-run race for anyone’s calendar. I wish the…
Flat. Fast. Festive. And Fun. The alliterations to describe this event are endless, but, put simply, the Runaway Pumpkin Half Marathon in Lebanon, Oregon never disappoints. It starts and finishes in scenic Cheadle Lake park, meanders through neighborhood streets aligned with cheering spectators, then navigates runners out of town and through the bucolic countryside alongside the swift Santiam River.
This was my first year at the Runaway Pumpkin Half Marathon 2014 and I am pretty sure I just found one of my favorite half marathons. I know, you guys think I love everything – but really, I totally loved this race from start to end. If you are looking for a race with a small-town feel that is completely thoughtful and supportive of its runners and volunteers – look no further. We have arrived!
