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There is certainly something about Oregon that inspires people to run. And it goes beyond the nostalgia and history of running in this state; something inspired Oregon's running legends before there were any. Personally, it isn't the memory of Prefontaine that gets me out the door for my run each day.

What is it about Oregon?
The temperate climate, the lush and rugged scenery, and the abundance of access we have to designated paths, trails, and even just rural/logging roads might all be factors. There isn't a corner of this state that doesn't motivate me to run.

Why do we run?
Running is certainly an individual sport. But for many, the experience is enhanced by participating with others. We may do most races individually, but how do you explain that team running events, like Hood to Coast, are some of the most popular events in the state?

Running clubs have become a magnet for people wanting to 1) join others for group runs, 2) race on a team and 3) find a forum to discuss running, nutrition, and even things outside the scope of running. The running club I have been president of for the past 3 years, Team Red Lizard, has 300 active members who all have one of those listed as the top reason for their membership. And I'm not being biased or uninformed when I say that we might be the best running club in the world. Out of town runners who know running clubs because they belong to one at home (wherever that may be) look us up and join us for a group run; the feedback is always the same - amazement at the number of active members and at how great running is in Oregon.

From the cool, misty days of winter to the dry sunny days of summer, there aren't a whole lot of days that don't allow one to get out the door for year-round training. And a day like today... I'm looking out the window right now thinking that I need to be out there enjoying it in the best way I know how - on a run.

Torrey Lindbo
President, Team Red Lizard
www.redlizardrunning.com

posted 4 years, 11 months ago
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