Portland's only reversed-timed race is back! Reach the Bridge, a fundraiser for the American Lung Association in Oregon, deviates from the standard race style of everyone starting at the same time and finishing at different times. Instead, you pick your start time (as late as you dare!) and have to race against the clock to cross the Burnside Bridge before it rises 9 am sharp! If you succeed, a rocking after-party awaits you right on the bridge.

Starting at the World Forestry Center, this stunning 8k run and walk takes you through the majestic Forest Park, down a closed Burnside Street, and over the famous Burnside Bridge. You've probably already figured out that it's a super fast course as it's all dowhill! This makes it a perfect event for runners and walkers of all levels. You can also opt to run or walk a 2k course – perfect for the kiddies.

As Reach the Bridge is a fundraiser for the American Lung Association in Oregon, there is a $50 minimum fundraising requirement, but take advantage of the early registration rate of only $15 through May 30. Motivated fundraisers are eligible for great prizes, and the funds they raise support important local programs and national research initiatives.

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Kick-start your duathlon season with this flat and fast race! The Frenchman's Bar is a sprint duathlon that starts and finishes in the Frenchman's Bar Park. Located just minutes from Portland, this park is located almost directly across from the confluence of the Columbia and Willamette Rivers and sits adjacent to a large tract of natural wetlands. This location naturally provides for scenic views of the Columbia River and a beautiful course.

All participants receive a sweat-wicking t-shirt and a medal. Awards will be given to the top three overall M/F, the top M/F masters, and the top three in each age group. Individuals and teams can still register the morning of the event beginning at 9:30 am.

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Come celebrate Cinco de Mayo with a beautiful run around Portland and then dance the day away to a live mariachi band! The Cinco de Mayo 10k and 5k run/walk features a course that starts in downtown Portland and winds along the scenic waterfront, with the 10k continuing on to Barbur Blvd. There is also a non-timed Kid's Half Miler.

After completing the run/walk, don't forget to hang out and eat the tasty treats provided by Azteca Mexican restaurant, drink some delicious beer from Redhook, and dance to Trio Latino Amor, an actual mariachi band! This is fun that the whole family can enjoy, all while helping a great cause!

The Cinco de Mayo run/walk is also a benefit for the Foundation of Retinol Resarch. The Foundation is a wonderful organization completely dedicated to raising funds to further understand vision impairments and search for their cures and supporting the lives of affected families. This year's run is in honor of Clara Johansen. She is a five year old that was born with a rare degenerative retinal disease. You will have an opportunity to meet her at the event.

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Do you need to spice up your triathlon routine a bit? Consider giving the Pole Pedal Paddle challenge a shot. This six-leg challenge involves just about everything Oregonian's enjoy. You start at the top of Mt. Bachelor and ski down for the alpine leg. Next comes the 8k cross country ski leg. Afterwards, hop on your bike for a beautiful 22-mile ride along the scenic Century Drive. Next you'll complete a 10k trail run that besides the Deschutes River. You're not done yet! Leg 5 is all about canoeing or kayaking in the Deschutes River, and last but not least, you have to sprint to the finish line for about 1/3 of a mile.

You don't have to tackle this challenge alone, though. You can pick a buddy and do it as a pair or grab a few more friends and form a team. If you're not ready to compete quite yet, you can still come out for the day and cheer people on. There will be food, music, and exhibitor booths galore. All proceeds go to the Mt. Bachelor Sports Education Foundation which promotes amateur alpine, cross country, snowboard, and cycling training for junior athletes, as well as assisting them with academics.

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Event season is about to be in full swing and one look at the calendar makes it clear that there is something for everyone. Maybe you're thinking about signing up for your first 5k. Maybe you've already got multiple races underneath your belt but want to set a PR. Maybe you just want to get into better shape. Either way, Get Fit Live Fit training programs will help you meet your goal. Whether you want to improve your current fitness level, achieve a particular race goal, or just live a healthy lifestyle, Get Fit Live Fit is here to help!

Registration for Session Two is now open. Training programs for this session range from getting ready for a 5k to a half marathon and are aimed at particular local races coinciding with session completion. Essential program features include an individualized training program, twice-weekly coached workout sessions, and access to weekly educational seminars. Session Two is filling up fast, though, so make sure to register today!

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