Hello Bend, Let’s RUN!
During this time last year, lots of Bendites were gearing up for their favorite fall running races in Central Oregon–From races like The Cascade Relays Beer Chase, the Oktoberfest Ale Run, Run the Rock Ultra series, and SO many more, Bend is known for it’s running scene, and the races in fall are always EPIC! Due to COVID-19, a lot of runners have had races postpone or cancel, and we know from experience and hear across the board that it has been tough staying consistent with any running training plans (or any routines for that matter) when there is no end in sight for things to return to normal! There are a couple of awesome running opportunities in Bend right now, and I wanted to take a moment to highlight them on the blog. If you sign up, send us a message on Facebook, Instagram or leave a comment below so we can cheer you on! Let’s Run Bend!
Running Solo – 10 Barrel Brewing:
Weekly Series (Ongoing)
Running Solo is a socially-distanced road and trail running race series race held over 4 weeks, this October and November, in Bend, OR. It’s pretty straightforward and will feel A LOT like a normal race. Except the whole mass start thing. Run the same course whenever and however many times you want by the weekly deadline to try to make it to the top 3 males/females for prizes! Most courses are a mix of trail and road and are around the 5k distance. **Must have a GPS watch, tracking device, or smartphone to enter your results.
Run the Rock – Smith Rock:
Saturday & Sunday, November 7-8
Run The Rock offers runners spectacular ultra running courses with 50mile, 20mile, 50K and half marathon loop-style trail options within Smith Rock State Park and the Crooked River National Grasslands. The 50mile consists of a 26 mile loop run twice. Total elevation gain is 6700ft and 6700ft of loss. 80% of the course is on single-track trails, 20% on double track and dirt roads. There are 8 fully stocked aid stations. Masks/ Gaitors / Face coverings MUST be worn at the start/ finish lines and at each aid station. Spectators are not allowed, and race registration is capped.
Happy Girls Half Marathon & 5K Sisters:
Saturday, November 7
This race is a personal favorite since I completed the 5K with friends last fall! It was a great reminder to re-prioritize my health & wellness and commit to taking more time to exercise. My husband and I feel that it is important to adopt healthy lifestyle habits as role models for our kids! Challenge yourself to take your health & wellness seriously and sign up for the half marathon this year and enjoy beautiful single track, fast, flowy descents and amazing views of the Cascades on the Peterson Ridge trail system just outside Sisters (all new course for 2020!) or have fun with the 5K which tours the scenic western-themed town. Both races start and finish at the beautiful FivePine Resort, where you’ll be welcomed by crisp mountain air and majestic Ponderosa pines. If you’re not into the whole in-person race, there are VIRTUAL options–no excuses now!!! This race is on Saturday, November 7, and usually sells out so book your slot NOW!
Footzone Weekly Runs
Footzone is your local go-to shop for all things running! Even during COVID-19, there are weekly running groups that meet consistently! Check them out:
Tuesday 5:00 AM: FootZone’s Rise & Run Group. FootZoner, Colton Gale, loves leading this early bird run. Meet outside FootZone with lights and layers, and get your run done for the day! All paces are welcome; 3-5 mile routes will usually take advantage of lit paths in the Old Mill District. Bring a few bucks for coffee after! For more info, email colton@footzonebend.com.
Tuesdays at 5:30 PM: FootZone’s Tuesday Performance Group (TPG) with Max King. TPG is an interval based workout group that is low key and includes/welcomes all ability levels. The focus is getting the most out of your running whether it is more speed, more fitness, or achieving more in less time. Workout distances can vary based on what is comfortable and effort level is up to you. Locations vary. For more info, email max@footzonebend.com.
Wednesdays at 12:00 PM: FootZone’s Noon Run. Meet Outside The Crows Commons Cafe. For more info, call FootZone at 541-317-3568 or email mark@footzonebend.com.
Thursdays at 5:30 PM: Bend Babes Brew & Running Crew. Women of Bend, if you like to run in the woods & celebrate with post-run beers and food, then join us on Thursdays! Each week we meet at a different trail, decide as a group how far to run (usually 40-50 minutes), and then meet at a brew pub for post-run drinks and dinner! All paces welcome– you will not be running alone, no matter what pace! Locations vary. For info on weekly locations, check their Facebook Page or email b3runningcrew@gmail.com.
Thursdays at 6:00 PM: Central Oregon Running Klub (CORK). CORK is a community-centric running group that welcomes runners of all paces and loves having fun hosting themed runs throughout year. CORK’s weekly Thursday runs are always followed by food and/or drink! Location vary. For more info, check their Facebook Page or email centraloregonrunningklub@gmail.com
Saturdays at 9:00 AM: Central Oregon Running Klub (CORK). Join CORK for a Saturday long run at 9 AM at Thump Coffee (549 NW York Dr #200). Feel free to run/walk whatever “long” means to you. Some runners/walkers will be aiming for 5-10 miles but feel free to adjust as needed. Meet at the end for coffee and camaraderie. Check CORK’s Facebook Page for any last minute changes, or email centraloregonrunningklub@gmail.com
Interested in more winter activities from Hello Bend? Read more HERE, SUBSCRIBE to the Hello Bend Blog, and follow along on Facebook and Instagram to stay in the know in Central Oregon.
Brenda Menzel, Broker
Cascade Sotheby’s Int’ l Realty ~ Hello Bend Real Estate
541-640-2125