Reindeer Run
Raceday FAQ's
Is there a packet pick-up? When do I get my bib number, time chip, and shirt?
The Friday before the race from 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm, you can beat the rush on race day and pick up your bib number, time chip, and race shirt at Columbia River Foursquare. Or you can pick them up the morning of the race.
Where do I go?
The race will start and finish at Columbia River Foursquare Church located at 555 Commons Drive in St. Helens, Oregon. We are located approximately 30-45 minutes outside of Portland on Highway 30, and 30 minutes south of Longview, Washington.
Where do I park?
There is parking available next to the church as well as any parking spaces across Commons Drive.
What time can I check-in?
The registration table will be ready at 6:45 am, so feel free to arrive anytime from then on. If you pick up your packet the day prior to race day there is no other need to do any check-in the morning of the race.
Is there a bag drop?
Yes, there will be a place to check-in your belongings if you are unable to leave them in your vehicle. Just proceed to the “Bag Drop” sign in the commons and a volundeer will assist you.
What are the start times?
Being a chip timed race, we have staggered start times.
- 7:00 am – Half Marathon Walkers & 3+ hour runners
- 8:00 am – Half Marathon Runners
- 9:00 am – 10K Runners/Walkers
- 9:15 am – 5K Runners/Walkers
Is there a place for my family to wait for me while I am on the course?
We are very pleased to offer a very comfortable and festive place for any friends and family to wait while you are on the course sweating it out! Our commons is a beautiful room decorated for the holidays, filled with music and refreshments. They will be able to look out a window at the finish line as they anticipate your return.
What aid is available on the route?
The 5k participants will receive aid at the 5k turn around at McBride school and upon finishing their course. The 10k course will have an aid station at mile 1, 2.3, 3.9, and 5. The Half Marathon will have an aid station at mile 1, 2.3, 4.9, 8.70, 10.75, and 12. All aid stations will have water, gatorade, and a sani-can.
Is the course marked?
Yes! All three courses will be marked with arrows on sandwich boards, mile markers and volundeers. You can look for a candy cane striped arrow with our mascot “Randy the Reindeer” on it.
Will the streets be closed for the race?
No, there will not be any streets closed for the race. All participants will run on the sidewalk on the right side of the road until McBride school. Then there will be “volundeers” directing the racers for the half marathon and 10K to cross to the other side so they will then be running against traffic. The 5k turn around is at the McBride school. We have done our best to anticipate any traffic issues and will have volundeers at those spots to stop traffic so you can proceed unhindered. However, please use wisdom if considering playing chicken with a several thousand pound vehicle! It is not worth saving a few seconds from your finish time.
If I am signed up as a walker can I run a little?
No. Since there will be ribbons for the first through third places you cannot run if you have signed up for the walk. However, if you signed up for the run you can walk as much as you desire! If you realize you have signed up in the wrong category just send me an e-mail and I can make the correction.
Can I access a map of the course?
You can see maps of the course on our website, and there will also be maps on the wall of the commons before the race.
Volundeers
We are very fortunate to have about 50+ awesome “volundeers” that will be coming to make your race as enjoyable as possible. Please let them know how much you appreciate them when you are out on the course.
What do I do after the race?
After you finish the race you will receive a special gift when you cross the line, keeping in the spirit of the season! Then you can hang out and enjoy music and some refreshments that will be provided for you. If you need any first aid there will also be an RN available to assist you at the first aid station in the commons.