TRR coach Annika Brubaker shares course and race insight in her Big River Half Marathon Race Report so you can be prepared on race day!
Race: Big River Race
Runner: Coach Annika Brubaker
Race Date: 05/30/2026
Location: Pasco, WA
Results: https://www.itsyourrace.com/results.aspx?id=16348
3 Bests – What aspects of the race did you like the most?
- Finish line vibe – live marimba band playing as you finish! great family atmosphere and makes you want to hang out and chat with running friends
- FREE Recovery zone – where you can get a quick massage, stretch or foam roll with a PT or use compression boots. Leave the race feeling fully recovered!
- Themed aid-stations – the volunteers bring the hype! Each aid-station is themed with blowup costumes and music playing
Not so much – Aspects of the race that didn’t do it for you
The course is in full sun. late May in eastern Washington can be hot!
Weird factor – What’s the weirdest thing about this race?
The race starts & finishes in a beautiful grassy park. The half marathon turns around at an industrial part of town by a railroad track. Not the prettiest area to run in but turning around gives you gorgeous views of the Columbia river and the view of two different bridges.
Highlights of your race – What did you do well and enjoy about your race in particular?
This race has a half marathon, 10k, 5k, and free 1 mile. A lot of families do this race varying from each distance. If family members are back in time they can join in on the 1 mile fun run! you see a lot of grandparents, moms, dads & kids running together!!
Lessons for others – Share your pro-tips on the race to help the next runner
If you think the half marathon will take you more than 3hrs, you can do an early start(and beat some heat) at 7am. This gives you a full 4hours for the half marathon distance. you are able to walk the 10k or 5k and still finish at/or before 11am.
Lessons you learned that will help you next time around
It can be hot! Wear a hats, carry extra water & sun screen. no shade on the course. Give extra time to park and get to the start. There is lots of parking but the closest parking lots fill up first. The bigger ones are .25 mile away but this gives for a good warm-up & cool-down walk 🙂
Most important course specific knowledge to know about the race
The course is very simple out & back on a paved bike/walking path. You do cross over 2 parking lots where people access the river but it’s not busy and course marshals are present. The course is marked every mile and signage along the way. It’s very nice you do not have to worry about turns on roads or dodging cars. Several places along the course, have easy access where your family, friends or cheer time can come out and watch you run. The course is certified by USATF.
Aesthetics – Is it a pretty course?
The race starts & finishes at a big grassy park beside the river. You will go through a natural habit area where that is more sage brush and trees. There’s section of river houses along one side of the path and about a mile up on a dyke. The riverfront path has access to several parks along it. You can view the river the entire time! Going out the river is on your right hand-side and coming back its on the left. The water does provide a bit a breeze and mist at places to cool you down.
Difficulty – Is it a tough course?
Nope! out & back and flat; you could run it half asleep
Organized and well run – Did it feel like a well-oiled machine or were they flying by the seat of their pants?
The RD has put on running events since ’19. She has several running friends & family that help put this event on. It’s well organized and planned out. The race is know for a great family/friendly atmosphere. People hang around after the race to visit and cheer on other runners
Competition – Is there a strong field?
There’s a competitive group of local runners. Not so much of pro-athletes coming to the race.
Logistics – Does it require a special handshake, registration a year in advance, hotels all booked? Give us the low down on the nuts and bolts of making the race happen.
Registration is easy through https://runsignup.com/Race/WA/Pasco/BigRiverPasco
There are several hotels close by for out of town folks. The race is also close to the Tri-Cities airport. The race has sold out before so don’t wait until bib pick to walkup and register!
Aid Stations – Standard fare or anything special to know about the aid stations in terms of what’s available or when?
- Half marathon- stations are 1.5-2 miles apart. total of 7 all with fun themes to keep you motivated
- 10k – stations are mile at 1.55, 3.05 and 4.5.
- 5k – station at 1.55 the halfway/turn around point.
- All stations have electrolyte drink (in colored cups), walk (in white cups), gels & fruit snacks, salt tablets and a 1st-aid-kit (they’ve got you covered)
Weather and typical race conditions
At the end of May in eastern Washington expect warm, sunny, and dry conditions with daily highs climbing from the mid-70s to near 80°F. lows rise from the low 40s to the low 50s°F. It’s generally pleasant, with low chances of rain and increasing sunshine, making it a great time for outdoor activities as spring transitions into summer!
Gear – Did you need anything special or is there anything you’d recommend for the next runner?
If you take the early start for the half marathon; the first 1-2 aid-stations will not be opened yet. Bring a hand held water bottle or hydration vest.
Spectators – Is this a friendly course for your friends?
YES! there are several parks along the riverfront path where people can park and easily get access to the race course. all the aid-stations are a great place to view runners
How’s the Swag?
The half marathoners get a free shirt with their registration. the others distances can purchase a shirt for extra. Half marathon, 10k, 5k gets a custom finisher medal. The race bibs are custom designed by an artist to coordinate with the medals. Age group awards and custom made finisher awards for the top 3 male & female finishers of the HM, 10k & 5k
The Overall Score – How many stars do you give this race and do you recommend that others run it?
10/10 come out to the Big River Race in Pasco, Washington!
Annika is a coach with Team RunRun. To learn more about her or to work with her, check out her coach profile.
