Winter’s Hottest Running Events
“The Ugliest 5k of Your Life” highlights season
Compiled by Diane Rudholm
Photo at right: Three festive snowladies at the 2012 Port Orchard Jingle Bell 5k. Photo by Carolyn Price
Jingle Bell Run & Walk for Arthritis
This annual 5k brings plenty of holiday cheer and bells with it. Teams dress up in their favorite holiday garb and raise money to benefit the Arthritis Foundation. For more information and to register, go to www.arthritis.org/programs-events/jingle-bell-run
Washington
Spokane, Nov. 16
Tri-Cities, Nov. 23
Port Orchard, Dec. 7
Seattle, Dec. 8
Skagit County, Dec. 8
Bellingham, Dec. 14
Oregon
Bend, Dec. 7
Portland, Dec. 8
Montana
Missoula, Dec. 7
Alaska
Anchorage, Dec. 14
The Sweater Dash
This run, dubbed “the ugliest 5k of your life,” encourages runners to wear their tackiest holiday sweaters and take part in a fabulous celebration at the finish line. This fun run is appropriate for all ages.
Seattle, Wash., Dec. 7, www.thesweaterdash.com
First Run
Put your best foot forward in the new year with a First Run. These events, planned by different organizations in the Northwest, offer challenges for runners of all levels.
Eugene, Ore., Dec. 31-Jan. 1, www.eclecticedgeracing.com/First_Run_-_Eugene.html
Portland, Ore., Dec. 31, www.aasportsltd.com/events/race/first-run-walk
Tacoma, Wash., Jan. 1, www.metroparkstacoma.org/first-run
Resolution Run
Resolution runs are great way to make a healthy statement on New Year’s Day. Some events encourage participants to take an invigorating dip in icy waters at the finish line.
Battle Ground, Wash., Jan. 1, www.resolutionrun.getboldevents.com
Fort Steilacoom, Wash., Jan. 1, www.runfsrc.com/fsrc
Lake Padden, Wash., Jan. 1, www.cob.org/services/recreation/races
Seattle, Wash., Jan. 1, www.promotionevents.com
Nookachamps Half Marathon, 10k, 5k
This classic Northwestern challenge takes runners through the chilly streets and trails of scenic Mount Vernon, Wash. each winter.
Mount Vernon, Wash., Jan. 11, beta.active.com/mount-vernon-wa/running/nookachamps-1-2-marathon-10k-and-amp-5k-2014
Looking for more winter running events? Go to www.OutdoorsNW.com/event
