Get ready for the Ultimate Urban Adventure Race! Based on the same idea as a wilderness eco/adventure race, the Oyster is set in a city and conducted over a shorter amount of time. The same disciplines are utilized: running, biking, hiking, creeking, etc., but in an urban atmosphere. The details of the event are actually kept secret until the start of the race. All you know before-hand is that your three person or six person team will run-bike-scoot/skate-trek-climb-paddle (and other crazy stuff) your away around Portland doing amazing things and performing some creative stunts. Both the body and the mind are challenged!

There are three race options for teams: The Oyster, Six Pack and Family Fun Division. The Oyster takes place on the traditional course with men's, women's and co-ed divisions. The Six Pack also uses the traditional course, but is designed for six people. Three people are on the course at any given time while the other three rest, hydrate and strategize. The Family Fun Division uses a shorter course consisting of three or four legs and ten to fifteen miles. Each team will be given passports that they need stamped as proof of reaching a check-point on course. With a variety of divisions, unique setting, various athletic modes and some brain teasers, The Oyster is perfectly positioned to please both elite athletes and the weekend warriors.

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Get in the Halloween spirit by dressing up for the 6th annual Run Like Hell Half Marathon! Costumes are not only encouraged but also rewarded during the post-run costume contest. The course will have you journeying through the Pearl District, along Front Ave, and up Barbur and Terwilliger Blvds where participants take in the vibrant colors of the changing leaves as well as beautiful views of downtown, Mt. Hood and more!

Not ready for a half marathon? There is also a 10k and 5k run/walk complete with their own costume contests. Both courses are fairly flat, making them great for all ages and abilities. You can also bring the little ones along as all events are stroller friendly. Make sure to get your dancing shoes ready for the post race festivities that include a live performance by the Freak Mountain Ramblers, food from Buffalo Wild Wings and cold beer from Redhook! Run Like Hell is a benefit for p:ear, a non-profit that builds positive relationships with homeless and transitional youth through education, art and recreation to affirm personal worth and create more meaningful and healthier lives.

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One of the last trail running events for the season, the McDonald Forest Trail Runs offer an incredible challenge and breathtaking scenery with views of the Cascades and Soap Creek Valley. The event features a 15k and 5k run. Both courses start and finish at the Forestry Cabin in McDonald Forest and cover single-track trails and logging roads. With a total elevation gain of 1450', the 15k is definitely the more challenging of the two runs. Two aid stations will be on course to provide support.

Awards will be given to the top three overall and masters male and female finishers and to the top three in each age group. If you register before October 19, you are eligible for a high performance technical shirt. Be aware though, there is no online registration. Make sure to download the registration form and either mail it in or drop it off at Five Star Sports in downtown Corvallis. The event is limited to three hundred participants.

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Based on the same format as the famous Dipsea race in California, the Lifeforce Challenge is a unique trail running experience. The 10k run is "age-staggered", meaning runners will be released in waves based on their age and sex. Therefore, the first runner to the finish line is the winner! Teams can also compete with the first four team finishers' places counting towards the team total. The course begins in Frank Kinney Park, makes a one-mile loop on the Rexius Trail, crosses Martin Street and heads onto the Amazon Headwaters Trail where the majority of the route takes place. The course is made up of bark chip paths and dirt trails.

New this year is a 5k run/walk that also spends a lot of time on Amazon Headwaters Trail and has just a few short hill climbs. If you want to get the kids involved, there is a 700m fun run with ribbons for all participants. Awards will be given to the top twenty-five finishers in the 10k, and in the 5k, to the top three overall male and female finishers and the top three in each age group.

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