This year I was able to make 3 of of the 5 Portland Trail Series (PTS) races, and they were as good as ever. Lots of up and down, good diversity of trails and elevation gain/loss, sweet giveaways after each race (though somehow I was shut out each time!). Seriously, these races are just very cool. Amazing atmosphere, tons of people (and competition in the summer!), great attitudes all around, and you just can't beat Forest Park for the setting.
My races went pretty well this year. I came in 2nd place the first race I ran, 4th place in the 2nd race I ran, and 1st place in the last race I ran. Every week was a crew of super fast guys, and the lead pack was bigger and off to a speedier start each time. Some really fast guys would drive in all the way from Astoria, and when they were on, they were ON. Made for some very cool rivalries while also maintaining the super fun, lighthearted feel of the PTS. Can't wait to jump into a few more of these - hopefully in the Fall, but def next spring.
Highly Recommend!

Pic is from my last race - it was a double loop and you had to pick up a GU and show it at the end to prove you did both laps. Here's Todd, the RD, handing me my GU as I try to catch the guy in front of me!