Now's your chance to take part in one of the most fun "fun-runs" around - the KeyBank Starlight Parade. As the precursor to the Rose Festival's Starlight Parade, this 5k run/walk is your chance to shine as a mermaid…or a block of Tillamook cheese…or whatever you decide to wear. That's right, running in costumes is highly encouraged, as well as rewarded with awesome prizes. The grand prize is a pair of Southwest Airline tickets. Keep in mind, this is the 30th anniversary so dress in your best ‘70s costume for special prizes in all categories!

The course starts and ends at Lincoln High and follows the same route as the Starlight Parade. This means over 150,000 people lining the street will be cheering you on the whole way. When you're finished running, be sure to hang out afterwards and watch the rest of the Starlight Parade while eating plenty of refreshments. Everyone also gets a coupon to enjoy a free lunch or dinner at any local area Old Spaghetti Factory…yumm!

( More Info ) ( Costume Contest )

Grab the family and spend the day at the beach, all while getting your daily dose of exercise. The Cannon Beach Elementary Walk Run is promoting "Fit Kids, Healthy Futures" as they raise funds for fitness equipment and curriculum and health related book sets for the classrooms, in addition to an ongoing after school fitness club.

Choose from a 5k or 10k run, a 5k walk, and a kids' mile, and on all courses you'll be running right on the beautiful sandy beaches of the Oregon coast. Some of the scenic highlights include Haystack Rock, Tillamook Head, and the "Terrible Tilly Lighthouse". Afterwards, enjoy a light lunch at the elementary school and cross your fingers that you win one of many prizes donated by local merchants. The great thing about this fun run is that it's over with by noon so you can enjoy the rest of the day in the sun and sand!

( More Info ) ( Directions )

The University of Oregon Triathlon club is hosting this Olympic distance triathlon and relay. Beaver fans: don't let the rivalry keep you from taking part in this not-to-be-missed event. The open water swim is a 750 m triangular course that you will loop twice. Water temperatures average in the mid to high 60's, so make sure to have wet suit. Don't own one? No worries, you can rent one at a special rate from Eugene Skin Divers Supply.

After the swim, hop on your bike for a peaceful and scenic route that includes birch shaded creeks, historical covered bridges and pastoral countryside. This portion of the course incorporates flats, gentle slopes, and two short steep accents. You may think that only the cold water will take your breath away, but so will the scenic running portion. The mostly flat, out and back course actually has you running across the Fall Creek Dam with dramatic views of the lake and valley. If all this sounds a little overwhelming, grab two friends and you can each choose a leg and partake in the relay race.

( More Info ) ( Course )

Whether you are giving trail running a shot for the first time or you're an experienced ultra runner, this run will be a memorable experience for all involved. You can choose from 10k, 20k, 30k or 50k course that takes you along the beautiful Wildwood Trail in Forest Park, the largest forested city park in the United States. Hosted by Pacific Coast Trail Runs, whose runs are known for their well-marked trails, accurately measured distances, unsurpassed aid stations, and a friendly atmosphere.

If the aid stations stocked with fresh fruit, salty snacks, assorted candy and boiled potatoes and salt aren't enough to keep you satisfied, there is a post-run picnic of soup and chili. While there are prizes for the top male and female finishers, winning isn't really what this run is about. The PCTR really encourages personal achievement and the enjoyment of trail running in general. Meaning, there is always going to be someone to cheer you on or give you a high five!

( More Info ) ( Course Map )

After the wife of the Central Oregon Running Klub's (CORK) President was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2000, CORK began brainstorming an event that would promote early detection of cancer and encourage a healthy, active lifestyle. Alas, Heaven Can Wait was born. Held on National Cancer Survivor's Day, this annual event brings the community together to celebrate cancer survivorship. Heaven Can Wait also raises funds for the Sara Fisher Breast Cancer Project, a local program dedicated to the early detection of breast cancer and support services for diagnosed women.

This 5k Run/Walk starts and finishes in the beautiful Drake Park. From there, you will wind through the historic Old Mill District, Mill Point Business Park, McKay Park, and quiet residential neighborhoods. Don't worry about hills – the route is mostly flat. Waiting for you at the finish line festival will be music, food, massages and a variety of exhibitor booths. Bring your friends and family and join in this celebration of life.

( More Info ) ( Course Map )