Run Astoria’s Historic Waterfront

Visit Astoria’s historic waterfront and run the 5th Annual Run on the River on Sunday, May 20. Runners will receive locally made finisher’s medals, as well as a post-race meal from the Buoy Beer Company, located right on the Columbia River. The 2018 USATF-certified courses for the 5K, 10K and half marathon distances are mostly paved and follow along the Columbia River, with some sections of wood track. The trail also features structures from Astoria’s industrial history as the first American settlement on the west coast.

Run on the River is hosted by the Astoria Parks, Recreation and Community Foundation, and is a major fundraiser for the Astoria Parks Department. Money raised will be offered as scholarships to families or individuals in Astoria who may not have access to health and wellness opportunities and facilities. Last year over $20K was raised, and nearly 1,000 scholarships were awarded throughout the community.

All runners receive a t-shirt and custom finisher’s medal made by local glass studio, Fernhill Glass. Race sponsor, Buoy Beer Company is located in a 90+ year-old cannery building on the river and will be offering each participant lunch and one of their hand-crafted brews (age 21 and over) after crossing the finish line. Buoy Beer uses the highest quality ingredients (most of it local – especially the seafood), and makes most of their food from scratch.  Top finishers of Run on the River also receive awards, as well as prizes for overall spirit.

Six aid stations will offer water and snacks along the entire half marathon course (which includes the 10K and 5K routes). Weather in the Pacific Northwest can be wet in the spring, so runners should be prepared with appropriate gear. The courses offer views of the Columbia River, the historic port area, shops and marina on the way to the old rail line which crosses the mouth of an inlet of the Columbia River called Alderbrook Lagoon. Race participants will be able to hear barking sea lions, run alongside the Astoria Trolley whose tracks parallel the course, and watch busy freighters on the water.

 

Just two hours from Portland, race participants will not only enjoy the scenic Riverwalk Trail, but also experience the sights and sounds of this port city situated at the mouth of the Columbia River. Colorful, historic homes, along with miles of sandy beaches have made Astoria a peaceful getaway in the heart of the Northwest. Register for Run on the River by visiting astoriaparks.com, and going to the events page. Early registration deadline is April 24.

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