The MAC Dash is a pool-based sprint triathlon that is centered at the brand new Madras Aquatic Center. This is a premier facility that just opened in January of this year and offers a fantastic swimming experience. After the five hundred yard swim comes the twelve-mile bike ride through the quiet agricultural areas of Madras. As you ride along the wide and well-paved roads, you'll catch some amazing views of the nine snow-capped mountains that define central Oregon's landscape. Last but not least is the three-mile run along a mixture of pavement and packed dirt trails.

The biking and running portions of the race are mostly flat with some rolling hills, making this a great event for beginners. If you're still unsure about completing your first triathlon all on your own, team divisions can register as well. There are plenty of awards to be given out during the post-race celebration, along with drawings for door prizes. Music and yummy treats will complete the party.

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Voted Best 10k in the Northwest for five years in a row, Pints to Pasta has become a Portland tradition. This 10k road race is perfect for runners and walkers of all levels. The race begins at adidas Headquarters on Greeley and loops through the Albina neighborhood past the Widmer Brothers Gasthaus and Brewery – a reminder of what's to come when you're finished running! Next you'll cross the Broadway Bridge and take in beautiful views of the Willamette River and downtown Portland as you wind down through Waterfront Park. The journey ends at the Old Spaghetti Factory, but not to worry, the fun is just beginning! There will be a post-race meal provided by the Old Spaghetti Factory, beer from Widmer, and live entertainment right on the banks of the Willamette.

Get all of the logistics out of the way by picking up your packet on Saturday between nine and three at the Old Spaghetti Factory so you're ready to go on Sunday morning. Parking is limited near the finish so try to carpool or take public transportation. There will be a complimentary shuttle bus to take you to the start at adidas.

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Be a part of the 43 annual Mt. Angel Oktoberfest, Oregon's oldest and most loved harvest festival. The 5k/10k road race is a tradition of the event. It begins and ends at Humpert Park in the quaint town of Mt. Angel, about eighteen miles northeast of Salem. From the park, runners head out into the scenic countryside surrounding the village, where they will pass by hop farms and nurseries on their way to the finish. If you are running the 10k, you will be lucky enough to run around the base of Mt. Abbey. Mt. Abbey is set high above Mt. Angel on a three hundred foot bluff that offers views of Mt. St. Helens, Mt. Hood and Mt. Adams, as well as the lush Willamette Valley farmlands. The entire course is paved with some minor hills.

Post-race there will be drawings for some awesome prizes, so make sure to stick around. You can also take advantage of the Oktoberfest's plentiful food booths, live music on four stages, arts and crafts, a classic car show, and much more.

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This is by far one of the most picturesque half marathons in the Pacific NW! Taking place on single-track trails, this course is a runner's dream. Runners and walkers will journey around the shimmering Timothy Lake, crossing three rustic bridges over trickling streams that flow into the deep blue waters of the lake. The course is somewhat challenging as it's full of twists, turns, and small elevation changes, but the rewards are numerous breathtaking views of Mt. Hood.

The temperatures will be cool, averaging between forty-three and sixty-three degrees. All participants will receive a free t-shirt and finisher medal. You can also sign up in advance for a post-race massage – a great way to treat yourself after a demanding day! This event is capped at three hundred and fifty participants, so make sure you register early online.

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Are you training for the Portland Marathon? This is a great event to give you an indication on how your training is going. The course winds through and out of the scenic Champoeg Park on mostly flat park roads, paths and country roads with just one solid hill to conquer – much like the hill just before the St. John's Bridge in the PDX marathon course. Aid stations will be placed at four different locations on course in addition to one at the finish. The half marathon course is also open to walkers with an early start. The five-mile option offers a quiet and beautiful course solely within Champoeg Park.

All runners and walkers will receive a microbial moisture management shirt that wicks moisture away and keeps you cool and all finishers will also receive a commemorative medal. Post-race refreshments will be provided during the awards ceremony. Online registration is open until Wednesday, September 17 but you can also register on site day of.

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