Run for Oso

On Saturday, March 22, at 10:37 a.m., a mudslide a mile wide crashed through a rural neighborhood, killing at least 36 people (8 remain missing). A massive hillside collapsed, sending mud and debris across part of the Stillaguamish River, and eventually covering an area of approximately a square mile.

In the three weeks it's been heartbreaking to follow the news -- but also heartwarming to see the communities of Oso, Arlington, and Darrington band together; and the outpouring of love and support from Seattle, western Washington, and the whole world.

So far, I've heard of two running events raising money for the communities and victims of the landslide; I just wanted to pass the info along in case anyone wants to lace up and show their support.



#1: Oso United Mudslide Benefit Fun Run, April 26, 2014 @10:45am

Taking place 5 weeks after the slide, the run will start at 10:45, following a minute of silence at 10:37. Here's the scoop from the Arlington Runners Club site:

The Arlington Runners Club is hosting a fun run to support those affected by the mudslide in Oso on March 22, 2014. We will be holding this benefit fun run on April 26, 2014 at the Arlington Airport Trail. 100% of the monies raised will be donated to the mudslide relief efforts, victims and their families.

Distances of 10K, 5K, and 1 mile will be offered, and registration $25 for runners and walkers between 15 and 69, regardless of the distance. (14 & under, plus 70 & older are free.) Can't make it to Arlington for the race? You can register for a virtual run and support the community. T-shirts aren't included, but they're selling nice "Oso United: I stand with Oso" shirts online and at the event.

I'll be running the race with 40 of my coworkers; I'd love to have others join us.

The late start time (10:45) honors the victims and their families; the race is being held 5 weeks after the slide, and there will be a moment of silence at 10:37.

Learn more about the Oso United Mudslide Fun Run >
Register for the Oso United Mudslide Fun Run >


#2: OSO Strong 5K, July 27, 2014 @9am  

"Oso Strong" captures the spirit of the community, and this race is intended to help fund the local first responders so they can in turn provide even better service to their communities.

This event will feature a 5K held partially on the Arlington Airport Trail and on some trails in the woods, but it will be "mostly flat, with some slight hills". The 5K will be divided into four running waves, each starting 5 minutes apart. Following this, there will be a walking wave. They're also offering an obstacle run for kids aged 3-10. Oh, and if you can't make it, you can sign up for a virtual run and sleep in.

Registration for the 5K run or walk is $35 and includes an event t-shirt. The virtual 5K is $45, but the price includes shipping your shirt to you. The kids' obstacle course is $10.

I'm hoping to add this to my summer race schedule -- even if just as a virtual run.

Learn more about the OSO Strong 5K >
Register for the OSO Strong 5K >

Let me know if you're interested in running these races, or if you hear of other events to benefit the mudslide victims and their communities.