Luck of the I-rush
Step up your St Patrick’s Day celebration with these fun runs
Perhaps you trotted off your turkey and jogged with jingle bells last year. Now, you can justify that extra glass of green beer after participating in one or both of the St. Patrick's Day-themed runs on the Central Coast this Saturday and Sunday, March 15 and 16.
Saturday, March 15
Lucky Leprechaun 5K, Lincoln City
Held on the beach next to Chinook Winds Casino Resort, this fun walk/run keeps it simple with no official timing or awards, just a great chance to set or meet personal goals or simply have fun with friends and family.
The out-and-back race on firm sand does include free raffle prizes, random prizes from the “Prize Fairy” and a Lucky Leprechaun 2025 sticker for the first 100 racers. Shirts will be for sale before and after the race.
There will be a water station at the turnaround point.
A big timer display will be at the finish line for those who want to track their finishing time.
The entry fee is $10. Online registration closes at 5 pm on Friday, March 14, and day-of-race registration begins at 9:07 am at the check-in site. The race starts at 10 am at the NW 40th Street beach access and runs north on the beach. Runners should park at Chinook Winds Casino Resort across from the main entrance. For more information, go to lincolncityparksandrec.org.
Sunday, March 16
Newport Shamrock Run
5K, Half Marathon and Kids Run
Line up in your best sporty St. Patrick's Day gear for the 9th annual Newport Shamrock Run, a festive, green-themed event celebrating the holiday with a range of races for all ages and abilities. Whether you're a seasoned runner or a first-timer, there is something for everyone, from the kids run to the newly added half marathon distance.
Prizes will be awarded to runners for time, and a prize will also be awarded to the best-dressed participant.
At the finish line, you’ll find the usual post-race fare. And, for half marathon and 5K finishers, you can fill your custom pint glass finishers award with green beer or, for a fun twist, green water.
Bring your friends, family, or colleagues and join the fun by registering as a team. There are various team categories to fit every group: Corporate, Friends and Family, School and Open.
The scenic course includes running under the Yaquina Bay Bridge, and for the half marathon runners, coastal trail sections, offering stunning views and a unique race experience.
Packet pickup and race-day registration begins at 8 am. The half marathon begins at 9 am, the kids run at 9:15 am and the 5K at 9:30 am.
The race starts and ends at 2320 SE Marine Science Drive in Newport.
For more information, go to ardoradventures.com.