BRRC Race Series
If you live in Spokane, you are most likely familiar with Bloomsday. If you are a runner in Spokane, chances are you’ve heard of other local races, such as the Spokane Marathon and St. Paddy’s 5 miler. But did you know that these races, along with several others, are all connected as part of a race series?
The Bloomsday Road Runners Club (BRRC) coordinates an annual race series, free to members, that spans almost the entire year. The mission of the series is, “to promote and reward consistency in running in a variety of distances throughout the year.” These races vary in distance from 5K to a marathon and are also designated for “motivating competition.” In order to participate in the race series, you must be a current BRRC member; memberships expire every year on Bloomsday.
After Bloomsday, the next race in the series is the Windermere Marathon or Half Marathon on May 20, 2018. This course is scenic, with the route going along the Spokane River on the Centennial Trail, and is also flat, with net negative elevation. Windermere is USATF certified and a Boston Qualifier, and appeals to both runners who are looking to qualify or set personal records. During prime racing season, the Windermere Marathon or Half Marathon is the perfect race to train for; the scenery is great, and with the fast course, your results will most likely be impressive. For a full list of the race series, please visit brrc.net. Some of the most popular races in the BRRC series include:
- Partners in Pain—a 5K scheduled close to Valentine’s Day where partners enter as a team and place based on combined age and time
- Rapid Rabbit
- Recycle Run
- Windermere Half and Full Marathon
- Sundae Sunday—a 10-miler sponsored by Ben and Jerry’s, who provide runners with ice cream after a longer run.
Farragut Trail Run (May 19)
Now that spring has arrived, it’s time to hit the trails! The Trail Maniacs coordinate a series of trail runs each year that take participants through our local parks. The majority of these runs are challenging in elevation, but rewarding with their views. I am constantly amazed by the beauty we have right here in our own backyard, and the Trail Maniacs runs never fail to reveal it to me.
Their next event is the Farragut Trail Run on May 19, 2018. Farragut State Park is located on the Southern tip of Lake Pend Oreille near Athol, Idaho. Once a World War II naval training station, this route offers history in addition to stunning scenery.
In typical Trail Maniacs fashion, there is the option to camp, have a potluck dinner the night before, and refuel at post-race BBQ. Their events aim to be family-friendly and fun; they focus more on the joys of trail running and spending time with good friends and family than on awards.
For a killer run with beautiful views and a fun after party, the Farragut Trail Run (or any Trail Maniacs event) is guaranteed to be a good time!
Feature photo: Spokane Marathon start 2006. // Jim Hoppe
