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Hood to Coast 2011 |
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6/18/2011 10:02:13 AM |
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 Ok, it’s a little early to post this but I’m too excited to wait until August to write about the Hood to Coast!! Last year I was a sub and had signed on thinking there was no way I’d end up running (didn’t really want to). BUT a month before the event I got a call that I was needed! I reluctantly said yes figuring that I could handle it, having run a half marathon event in June.
The Hood to Coast is a team relay race and not just any relay race but 197 miles split into 36 legs. There are 15,000 runners participating in the event. Each team member runs 3 legs in rotation and the legs vary in length from 3.5 miles to 7.8 miles, and in terrain from flat terrain to steep hills. Each runner runs anywhere from 13.6 to 19.7 miles (I ended up running 14.10 miles). The race starts early Friday morning on August 26 (starting times are staggered) at Timberline Lodge and ends in Seaside on the beach (ending times vary).
Our team had 12 members and we split into two vans. Our team captain assigned legs, vans and had an organized schedule of stops and places to eat. I was with the group that started the race. When you’re not running you’re in the van moving to the next relay location. So you’re waiting for the runner to come in (while cheering) and then cheering while the next runner heads out. You pass a slap bracelet from runner to runner.
I really had no idea how crazy this event would be. There are teams in elaborate costumes, playing music from their vans, with practiced cheers. And you run day and night (whenever it’s your turn). Two of my legs were in the daytime and one at night.
At night you have to wear flashing vests and a headlamp so you can be seen. There’s an incredible spirit of camaraderie between everyone. They cheer you on whether you’re on their team or not (which is amazing). Your team becomes your family for the day. They look out for you and are there right along with you as you wait in line for one of the many porta potties (there are so many long lines!). This year is the 30th anniversary for the Hood to Coast and I’ve signed up again (fully knowing what I’m in for). I’ve got about two months to get myself ready to run in the Hood to Coast.
The event starts Friday August 26th and ends Saturday August 27th. If you’re not running, then be there to witness all the crazy fun on Saturday on the beach right in front of the Prom. There are vendors, music and crazy runners coming in from the race.
The Portland to Coast relay also runs concurrently and many choose to run that Relay instead.
Either way, I hope to see you there! Cheer us on as we finish and be a part of Seaside history!
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