After a year of being canceled, followed by another of going virtual, the Lake Oswego Lake Run returns this year for its 46^th appearance on Sunday, June 5. Much of what we love about the Lake Run remains the same but here are a few changes you might notice, depending on how far back you go with this tradition.  

The course has changed. When my wife and I ran it many years ago, there were a lot more climbs involved than the current course. Instead of running all along South Shore Boulevard once runners survive the McVey challenge, we cut up Greentree and into the Palisades neighborhood before picking South Shore up again off Westview. And instead of continuing on  Lakeview Boulevard to meet up with Iron Mountain, we veered off onto Summit Drive, up to Village on the Lake before descending down to meet up with Iron Mountain Boulevard. So, just remember, as you are cursing McVey, be grateful that once you master that, the worst is behind you.

The sponsoring organization has changed. For many years the Lake Oswego Junior Women’s Club sponsored the Lake Run but in 2019, turned those honors over to Northwest Housing Alternatives (an organization that actually received some of the proceeds even when the Women’s Club ran things). They have had their challenges, given that Covid canceled in-person events for two years. But this year they are back at it.

There are more options than before. When we ran it, we either hired a babysitter to stay home and watch our kids, or one year, we had our kids meet us halfway and finish the race with us (well, I think I actually had to carry my youngest on my shoulders for most of the way). But now there is a 5K and a Kid Dash, making it a real family fun event, topped off with the Festival. And, as a carryover from Covid days, runners can also participate virtually, running their own course in their own time and just registering their results.

It’s held in June instead of May. Traditionally the Lake Run was held the first part of May; however, this year it has been moved to June. Good news on a couple fronts—a better chance for good weather, it doesn’t compete with another worthy fundraiser—Walk4Water—and….it gives you more time to train!

You can contribute to a food drive at the Lake Run Festival. The race organizer, Northwest Housing Alternatives is hosting a food drive for seniors living at their affordable housing properties in Lake Oswego and Clackamas County and you can donate at the festival or drop off food at either the New Seasons on Monroe Parkway or Albertson’s on Boones Ferry Road.

There are lots of good things about the Lake Run that haven’t changed like:

The scenery. Views of Oswego Lake and tree-lined streets are bound to keep you distracted enough that you may not even realize you’re working out!

Cheering neighbors. The Lake Run is a community event, supported not just by the volunteers and runners but the neighbors who come out to cheer the participants on. Be prepared to be clapped for, encouraged and reassured that “You’re lookin’ good” whether you’re feelin’ good or not!

Benefits a good cause. Northwest Housing Alternatives builds new homes and new opportunities for seniors, families, veterans and people with special needs across Oregon. With more than 1,900 homes across the state, NHA is one of the largest providers of affordable housing in Oregon. In addition, NHA provides homeless intervention programs for families in Clackamas County, including operating the Annie Ross House family emergency shelter for families experiencing homelessness.

Bragging rights earned. The Lake Run is tough enough to bestow bragging rights on all who finish (but not so tough that you can’t!)

Register online.

If you’d like to become part of the Lake Oswego community, let’s talk! I’ve been a Lake Oswego Realtor for over 30 years and would love to help you make this wonderful place your home. Call me at 503.939.9801, email me at costellok@hasson.com, and/or check out my website.