This was one of my favorite runs because of two reasons: it was flat and you run alongside the…read morewater nearly the whole run. What more can you ask for? The starting line and finish line are at different spots, so when you first arrive, you park at the finish line (Madison Park) and then shuttle to the starting line (it differs depending on whether you're running the 5K or 10K). It was easy to find the shuttle pickups; just look for the long line of people. Surprisingly, it didn't take long to get on the school bus. They could cram a lot of people on the buses with runners awkwardly trapped in the aisle as the bus took us away. Upon arrival, check-in had no line, so it was very easy to pick up my bib. The bathroom line was super long though with 15 porta potties and a bunch of anxious runners. The race itself started on time. I know I said this was flat, but there was one TINY incline and then one actual hill you run up around mile 5. For the most part though, super flat. There were race photos taken during the run, water stations, friendly volunteers, and festivities at the finish line. I even won a raffle prize! Overall, great race, would highly recommend.

35 years of this event and nobody has Yelped it yet?!?!?…read more I was in town for my niece's graduation from Seattle Pacific University, so I looked on the calendar for any running events that might be going on this weekend. Luckily, I was able to come across the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center Shore Run/Walk. For my family, this event was perfect. They offer a half mile kids fun run, a 5K walk for the non-runners of the family, and a 10K for those of us that are a little more competitive and enjoy a little smack talk. From the 10K perspective, this is a small race. The entire group looked to be now more than 250-300 runners - a STARK contrast from the 40,000 + from the San Diego Rock N Roll Half Marathon I ran 7 days prior. It was actually really nice to be a part of such a small and intimate run. With regard to the course, it was absolutely beautiful. The 10K begins at Ferdinand Park - be careful not to get confused with the 5K Furry Run that starts only yards away at Seaward Park (what was that all about?) - and continues along Lake Washington Blvd with beautiful vistas of the lake, through McGilvra Blvd and neighborhoods out of my tax bracket, and on to the finish at Madison Park. Beware the "hill" at about the 4.5 mile mark. Though a bit steep, its relatively short, so a little preparatory hill work should help you beyond that without too much issue. On the topic of water stations, there was one at approximately the 3 mile mark, and one more about the 5 mile mark (just a bit beyond the "hill"). The finish line at Madison Park was festive with booths and activities. The gear check was a bit difficult to find because the event is so small, there wasn't exactly a "booth", it was more like a volunteer holding bags in the back of her car. So to the gear check volunteers, and to the woman that volunteered her SUV, thank you! Thanks to all the sponsors, especially The Old Spaghetti Factory. I'm not one to dine at such establishments, but our bibs were good for a free dinner. For 8 of us, our bill came to $27 and a "congratulations" from our server - it continued to carry the intimate sentiment from the race through dinner (don't worry, we tipped her well). A chance to run a beautiful course with my family and to contribute to an amazing cause, I wish I could say I'll be back. The truth is, now that my niece has graduated and is now coming home, I'm not sure if I ever will. But what I will say is thanks to the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center and to the people and communities of Seattle. You have a beautiful gem of a run here and if you've never participated in it, mark your calendars for next year. Oh, and this is the first time I've ever run with my phone in hand, hence the pictures. You're welcome. ;)

Nutella lovers rejoice, this race is your dream come true!! There were so many snacks...more snacks…read morethan you can imagine and jars of nutella were everywhere to add to your banana, cake or nutella sandwiches. Best. race. food. ever!! This was such a fun and well-planned event, we really enjoyed ourselves! I am always happy to see a course that isn't overcrowded and a start without long lines and sufficient port-a-potties (essential!). There were so many helpful volunteers around and so many people trying to feed you cake, much appreciated. The race shirts/medals/photo booths/signs all had lovely oatmeal artwork which alone is worth the price of admission. There were so many fun costumes and the blerches and couches along the course give you a nice chuckle. The only downside is that the course has lots or gravel which makes for some discomfort at times, but I would still do this race again for sure. One tip: purchase the parking pass, it is well worth it and you get to park right next to the start. I heart Beat the Blerch!! Thanks for a fun run!!

My running group tries to do a "destination" race every year & we decided to make it Beat the…read moreBlerch this year. There was nine of us from AZ (one was actually from Iowa). A couple people in our group were originally from Seattle & a few were familiar with The Oatmeal (I wasn't) so it seemed like a good fit. It was so fun! Most people in our group are generally pretty competitive runners, but given the nature of this race all but one decided to run for "fun." Most of us (including me) did the half marathon along withe a couple of 10K'ers (they also do have a full marathon option). Before I get into the fun stuff I'll just point out some race logistics. The half marathon (as well as 10K) is an out and back. It's a gradual up hill along a trail, so coming back it's a gradual down hill. The setting is gorgeous (Carnation is about 45 minutes outside of Seattle) with lots of greenery. I would say the race itself is a less competitive than most big organized races like this (which totally makes sense) with people of all different abilities. The one woman in our group who did take it seriously was the 2nd overall female and in the top 20 overall (there was over 800 people who did the half). She said she's never finished so high in a race that big. Okay...now for the fun! -BURRIDONUT (sp?): I had one before the race (they were also available after). Get in line, take a flour tortilla, get a grilled donut from a local bakery (chocolate or coconut), and then your toppings. They had bacon bits, ranch, gummy bears, marshmallows, and other toppings that I can't remember. Wrap it all together and enjoy! It's a good thing I wasn't taking the race seriously because I DEFINITELY felt this rumbling in my belly as a jogged. Also, the grill they were using for the donuts was nice to stand by to keep warm. -Cake!: Yep, there's cake at the aid stations! And not just store bought grocery cake. I can't remember the name of the local bakery who provided a TON of sheet cake, but it was really delicious & moist. The bakery also provided the donuts for the burridonuts -Nutella sandwiches: Also available at aid stations. I had to have one to say I ran while eating nutella sandwich, but like the burridonut it did a number on my stomach and I only had one at the the first aid station -Blerches (and a Sasquatch!): These guys jumped out every now and then to lighten the mood and make for a fun experience. The location for this race is nice! There's a large barn in Tolt Macdonald park where lots of goodies were available after the race. Also, the swag bags were pretty nice. In addition to a foam blerch & candy, all half marathoners get a really nice long sleeve half-zip tech running shirt w/the race logo. I'd totally do this race again!

Liberty didn't bother to check the schedules of the bars so 3 of the 4 bars we biked to were…read moreclosed. She made no attempt to fix the issue and made it clear that she had another commitment after our tour so there was no way to offer us extra time. She clearly just didn't care. Then she had the gall to ask for tips.

The Cycle Saloon is a great time and a fun way to spend a couple hours with your friends!! We had a…read moregroup of 10 so all our pedals were covered. I will warn you it is not always easy. Fortunately, there is a beanch seat, and 2 bike seats that have no pedals so people who are physically challenged can still go. There are several breweries you can visit, and lots of different beers to try. Our drivers name was George. He was fun and enthusiastic in his job.(unfortunately as a Cowboys fan I was disappointed that he is a Giants fan) We were on a birthday celebration and it was a perfect outing!

This is a local carnival held every year with some rides, lots of vendor booths, food trucks/tents,…read moreparades, and love music/events. it's exactly what you'd expect from a local carnival, and they have some nice big open park space for everything so it's all close together. As you can expect, carnival vendors are of mixed quality goods/foods, but it's nice to get a chance to check new things out. The event is also extremely packed, so you'll be pretty much back to back with people most of the time. It's worth checking out at least once though.

Fun in the sun! There's also a park & ride nearby! Lots of booths with different types of food to…read morechoose from! A great place to be outside and enjoy the sunshine today! It's going on until 9pm 07/15/23

This is my first time joining UW Dawg Dash. And, I am not a UW alumni. But, I thought it's nice to…read moreget the spirits going and help out UW students in their scholarship. It's meaningful. However, my friend who ran with me was a UW alumni. That's another reason to support. This isn't really a big event. But, everyone was running/walking hard. I am a dog lover. I think the best part of this run is that you can bring your dogs. Unfortunately, my boys don't really run. In addition, there were a few sponsors handing out goodies. My favorite would be the green tea chopsticks and Peak's Frozen Custard, Pumpkin flavor. When it comes to the route and course, this run isn't my favorite. Towards to the end, the course looped around campus several times. It got crowded, a bit confusing, and complicated for 10K. I think the 5K may have been a better route since it's shorter.

The Dawg Dash is a 5K and 10K run sponsored by the University of Washington to raise money for the…read morealumni association. The biggest draw for me is this is a dog friendly event. There aren't many in Seattle unfortunately even though this is a dog friendly city. My pooch, Dugan, and I have done it two years in a row. This is a fairly well organized event. This year I had to stand in line longer to get my race bib than I had last year but that tends to happen. The run starts in Husky Stadium. Before the gun goes off to start the race the Star Spangled Banner is played. You run on the track then run out of the stadium. Soon you are in the UW campus, on the Burke Gilman Trail then back into the stadium for the finish. While running through campus the alumni band is playing festive tunes to keep you motivated. The course is mostly flat with a few small inclines here and there. This is a great run for beginners. Don't worry. LIttle Bobby won't be left out. For the little guys there is a free one mile Pup run which commences once all the runners are out of the stadium. While I enjoy this run my only complaint is there are no waves. The runners, walkers, and joggers all start at the same time. Due to my frequent trips to the bathroom caused by nerves Dugan and I were stuck in the back. When the gun went off we were ready to go at full speed but were stopped in our tracks as we encountered the walkers. For at least half a mile there is no room to move. It is crowded not only with humans but with dogs. Be aware of the length of your dog's leash and you'll be just fine. I recommend the Dawg Dash highly because I can run with my dog. Also, the course is easy as pie. The alumni band is a great touch as well.

Thanks to a fortuitous change in plans, I was lucky enough to go on a retreat with RAW and cannot…read morespeak more highly of the experience! Upon arriving, the lodging we were staying at was rustic and tucked away in nature, a true "get away." It felt like we were sleeping in a tree house! Tracey left us little welcome notes, which was a very nice touch to make us all feel welcome. Throughout the weekend there are multiple activities to choose from - bike rides throughout the beautiful island, as well as yoga sessions in the morning and afternoon. The cycling is great for experienced riders and newcomers alike as it is geared towards sightseeing, but still a very good workout! I was nervous as I hadn't ridden in months, but everything is optional so if you choose to stay behind at the lodge or head into town, there is that option as well. No one is competitive and while our group varied in athletic ability, I still felt able to enjoy the riding despite being less experienced. The yoga is equally amazing - the instructor mirrors the energy level of the group well and makes adjustments for all levels! By the end, I fully decided to do yoga regularly - her classes got me hooked! The food is AMAZING - I cannot speak more highly about how fresh, organic and healthy it is, as well as how creative the chef is in making things that thrill your pallet. YUMMY! Every meal was a surprise and an absolute delight. From the presentation to the variety, I loved it! She also made special adjustments if you didn't eat something (meat, cheese, etc.) so the meals were custom to you. I could go on about how wonderful the weekend was but I'll sum it up so I don't get too wordy - this retreat is a great chance to spend some time reflecting, enjoying nature and connecting with other women. We laughed, shared stories, drank wine, ate great food, exercised and by the end, I felt like a million bucks! I can't recommend this more - everyone walks in a little shy and walks out good friends. You can do as much as you'd like or as little as you'd like and it is a great way to recharge your body and mind! And lastly, Tracey (the owner) is an amazing leader - she is warm and friendly and immediately makes you feel comfortable. She really brings out the best in people and I am glad I got to know her over the course of the weekend!

When you meet Tracey.. you just want to keep talking to her…read more.. From the first time I heard her speak in front of hundreds of women cyclists at a bike shop... I knew then I wanted to go to her retreat, get to know her better, and just keep talking to her, listening to her... Truly there is not a more genuine, happy and bright sunshine of a person... She is a special part of the gift of your RAW retreat....!!! The other "gifts" include all the women that this great idea brings together... the laughter, joys, stories shared on all the moments in between yoga sessions, lunches on picnic tables or wineries, bike riding beautiful roads, challenging moments of going up hill where you band together to help your fellow woman up a steep climb.. to the sections of downhill that make you go "wwwweeeee" :)))) I can't think of something I want to do more.. I've already done one retreat.. but I'm ready for another.. and now I really also want to share this retreat time with my friends!!! I honestly can't believe how much I loved the weekend!! Do this for YOU, and if you bring a friend- wonderful.. but if no one you know is going.. you must still GO and meet other amazing women...!!! The weekend was such a treat!!! :)

Went last year and this year was not as much fun as last year. There were more interesting vendors…read moreand activities last year. This year was quieter and seemed smaller.

This is one of those places I find myself humming Bikini Kill when I think about it…read more It's a free little carnival in the heart of Georgetown on the second Saturday in June and it really fits in with the neighborhood - nice and weird! There are several stages with different events throughout the day so you can pick and choose your own adventure! I really liked the fact that almost all of the vendors were local and weren't selling DH Gate/MLM garbage. There are a lot of bars and restaurants to choose from in this area and they bring in a bunch of food trucks as well, because it wouldn't be a carnival without fried food and games! Seemed like things changed fairly rapidly throughout the day so it's a great idea to come early and plan to stay for the duration of the event! There are even after parties to keep the fun going if you're so inclined.

We've attended the fair and monster trucks here at the Fairgrounds. The grounds and facilities…read morethemselves are great. What's SERIOUSLY disastrous is the parking situation. There needs to be some extensive enforcement of dangerous and downright stupid parking during big events. Just came here for an event last weekend and cars were parking three-deep, completely blocking in cars in the middle. Imagine one of those folks needing to leave, only to find they're boxed in by half a dozen vehicles. Parking in the grass, parking on planted tree-filled areas, parking in handicap spaces with no pass. The unfortunate truth is that the Fairgrounds was built for a smaller population in Kitsap. All the growth with no change in infrastructure to support it. Sigh...

Attended a roller derby event at the fairgrounds. Plenty of parking, real deal ATM machine(Kitsap…read moreCredit Union) at the entrance of the pavilion. Snack bar was open for this event,(burgers, hot dogs, etc). Bathrooms available as well. The actual derby event was a blast to watch! These teams are seriously competitive and put on a great show! Family friendly environment.