This is an annual event to raise awareness for CDH (congenital diaphragmatic hernia), a fetal abnormality that restricts lung growth. Half of the kids born with CDH die. HALF. Through the generosity of sponsors, race fees all go to help children affected by CDH!

I signed up at the event, because I missed the two-days-in-advance online registration deadline. I'd still register in advance if you can, though the only impact was I had to wait until after the race to pick up my t-shirt (so those who pre-registered could get their preferred sizes--totally fair). The race swag bag was a mini-shopper from Athleta with a small assortment of useful things (portable bandaid keeper, cookie, info on other races). Pre-race events included a ladybug release (soooo much more environmentally friendly than a balloon release) for hope and solidarity.

The race is in a lovely part of Tigard with lots of trees, so most of the course was in the shade. Runners and walkers organized themselves in the single-start corral, with serious runners (and there were some!) at the front. If you run a lot of events in Tigard you've probably run through most of the course, but it's still nice. The 5k course did one loop, and the 10k course did a different/new loop after finishing the first loop. The 5k loop was either entirely on pavement or 95%+ on pavement, so if you're a serious runner and looking for a PR, this might be an option. The 10k's second loop had a few pieces on a gravel trail, though if you're a speed rabbit you probably could PR that 10k too. There was also plenty of room for the less-speedy (I got to pet five dogs!) and those who chose to walk the whole thing. Those at the end of the 10k came to the finish line just as the kids' race was starting, and it was adorable to watch! The course was mostly flat, but I added a star due to one significant hill. There were plenty of aid stations with water, and they were well-stocked. Volunteers were very friendly and helpful.

The shirts are a nice technical cotton (not a Hanes or a Beefy tee, but a Nike one) with a cute ladybug design featuring the state of Oregon. While the sponsors are all listed on the back, I don't care, I'm wearing that shirt again. (Actually, I *DO* care--that sponsorship allowed the race to earn more money for the charity.) Everyone received a medal, the design is similar to the t-shirt design, again, super cute.

Post-race eats included grilled cheese sandwiches made on Hemp Seed bread from sponsor Franz Bakery, with Pacific Foods tomato soup (warm!) for dipping. There were also bagels and an assortment of other snacks. The over-21 crowd had two tickets for beer or cider, as well as the opportunity to taste the relatively new White Claw alcoholic seltzer. The after party had door prizes, live music and dancing, and booths from other sponsors (Nothing Bundt Cakes steals my heart every time).

This is the first in a series of races I have planned with my "I don't run but I'll walk that" friends. We all thoroughly enjoyed ourselves.