If you are looking for a destination race, then consider putting the Oregon Wine Country Half Marathon on your list. Here's a preview of what to expect.
Oh dear. What have I done?
I'm an adventure junkie who (foolishly) says yes to most things I've never done before because I like - no, I LOVE - trying new things all the time. But this time, I fear I may be in over my head. The adrenaline rush from being on a working vacation got the better of me and I seem to have agreed to run my first partial half marathon.
It's in 2.5 weeks. And I haven't been training . . . I went on one pathetic 3-mile run/walk with the kids post-vacation, and then got sick shortly after officially registering. I am now finally back to feeling 100%.
I've never run a half marathon before, so I was ECSTATIC when I found out there was a relay option and immediately signed up Mr. Bliss to run the final 7 miles while I would run the first six miles.
Six miles. I don't know if I've ever run six miles in a row in my life. I've got a couple of 5Ks under my belt now, so I suppose it's time to double the distance.
Plus, there's wine at the finish line, so there's always that. Right? ;-)
Oregon Wine Country Half Marathon
The Oregon Wine Country Half Marathon is Saturday August 8th and starts at 7:00 am at Stoller Winery in Dundee, Oregon (pictured above).
The scenic race route winds through the absolutely stunning wine country, through the quaint town of Lafayette, and into the town of Carlton for the finish.
Even though I've never run 6 miles before in my life, I love the idea of running through some of my favorite land in the entire state. Even if I have to walk really fast during some parts, I don't think I could pick a more idyllic view to enjoy along the way.
Why run the Oregon Wine Country Half Marathon?
This is a race that is about so much more than just running. The Oregon Wine Country Half Marathon is coordinated by Destination Races, whose slogan is Cool Races in Beautiful Places. I know there will be plenty of competitive runners there, but from what I'm told by friends who have run the race in years past, there's a low-key vibe and authentic camaraderie among the masses. These runners are here for the destination, the adventure, and the fun that both precedes the race and awaits them at the finish line.
The night before the race, there's an optional welcome reception at Ken Wright Cellars; an optional fun run designed for families; and optional dinner at the Allison Inn & Spa in Newberg, Oregon.
After you cross the finish line, you immediately enter the Wine & Music Festival - a true reward with more than 20 wineries ready to serve you samples and Lagunitas Brewing Company pouring their beer. There will also be live music throughout the festival. It is open to the public so your friends & family that were cheering you on along the way can help you celebrate. If they wish to partake in wine tastings at the post-race festival, you can pre-purchase up to 3 wine glasses per race registration for your guests.
So now that I've kicked the summer bug, I'm laced up and ready to hit the trails to try to get as much training as I can in these short two weeks before the race. Trust me on this: if I can do this, YOU can too! Won't you join us?
Visit Oregon Wine Country Half Marathon's website for more information and to register online.
Here's a little video motivation to get you to sign up too. Join me, won't you?
Have you ever run a half marathon or full marathon before? If so, please share your tips & advice for newbies like me in the comments below! :)
Thanks to Destination Races for sponsoring our relay team race registration. All photos and opinions are, as always, my own.
Erin says
Absolutely gorgeous photos! You got this run, Marlynn! The beautiful scenery, all the people and energy amongst the race crews and runner will seriously make it seem easy. You will rock it! And then enjoy some great wine at the end :)
Marlynn Jayme Schotland says
Thanks so much for the support & encouragement, Erin!
Jen says
Starting slow is the best advice! I've run a marathon and several half marathons and that's always what gets me. And there's no shame in walking when you need to! With awesome scenery and the promise of wine at the end, just take it slow and enjoy the views. :) Good luck!
Ali says
I've heard it's a beautiful one. My advice would be not to force yourself to run it all it you start to hurt. You don't want to get injured!
Marlynn Jayme Schotland says
Good advice - thanks Ali!
Jenni says
I never heard of a relay option before in runs... that is awesome! My husband has really been into running and did a trial run and then the Shamrock Run this year and ended up injuring his ankle and it hasn't quite healed yet. I'm going to keep a tab on the destination runs though because that would be perfect for us both, I like being able to have somewhere pretty and interesting to cheer him on from!
Melinda says
I haven't run a marathon, but I did walk the Portland Marathon in 2004! I trained for months, but I think you are in better shape than you think if you are doing yours as a relay. You'll do great! Enjoy the race!
Marlynn Jayme Schotland says
Thanks for the words of encouragement, Melinda!
Erin @ Platings and Pairings says
I really want to sign up for this one!!! I've run/walked a few half marathons in the past three years, and I'm always extra motivated when there's wine at the end ;) It's NOT an easy feat though!!! Good luck!
Jennie says
Oh my goodness, you're brave! I've run half and full marathons before but haven't run them since moving up here to Oregon a few years ago. However, whether or not you've trained, I would highly recommend the following: start off slow--if you have energy, you can always use it at the end for the final push (I used to jet out of the start line and die in the first mile!), eat a plain dinner and breakfast (no huge carb-loading meals--you'll regret it), stay off your feet the afternoon before if you can (meaning, no last-minute runs or bike rides...store up that energy!) and finally, HAVE FUN! There is nothing like the energy at the beginning of a race. It's so amazing. You're going to have a great time! :)