Spokane now has its first all-women’s race that’s been a regional favorite for some time. Picked for its reputation as a great running town, Spokane will be the first city outside Oregon to host a Happy Girls Run. The race offers a 5k, 10k and half marathon, attracting women of all abilities. Spokane’s Happy Girls Run is set for Saturday, September 27. The race course will weave through the beautiful trails of Riverside State Park along the Spokane River combining rolling terrain, groomed paths and paved surfaces. The start and finish is at Mukogawa Fort Wright Institute. All Happy Girls Runs support a local beneficiary, and the Spokane based non-profit “Statement,” which brings education and awareness to the prevention of domestic abuse, while promoting leadership and character development among today’s youth, has been selected for this run. A portion of the proceeds from the race will go directly toward supporting and enhancing their programs and activities.
Race organizers at Lay It Out Events pride themselves on hosting a great race with a festival-type atmosphere. Pre- and post-race events will include some of Spokane’s best businesses and attractions including yoga sessions in the green spaces at the start / finish area, and a women’s expo Friday evening. Free food, beer and cocktails will greet the racers as they cross the finish line.
The Spokane race will continue the Happy Girl tradition of adorning the half marathon runners with a custom silver necklace as they cross the finish line. Recognized for its goody bag, all racers can look forward to custom race apparel and some regional specialties coming their way as part of the package.
“These races have a following and will draw women from around the northwest. It’s a great event for the local economy and will continue to grow over the years,” says Eric Sawyer, Spokane Sports Commission President and CEO.
“The Happy Girls Runs are among my favorite races to produce; I think I come away from them as inspired as the runners themselves. I love seeing best friends, mothers and daughters, and first time racers all out there making it happen together. The vibe is fantastic,” shares Cynthia Engel, Happy Girls Race Director. Registration for Spokane’s Happy Girls Run is now open. Happygirlsrun.com.
