McMenamins hosts 5K, 10K walk/run in Bothell

Hundreds participate in 5K, 10K walk/run on the traditionally the “worst” weather day of the year.

By Stephanie Quiroz • January 8, 2019 8:30 am

On Jan. 5, attendees gathered for the Worst Day of the Year Run.

The run/walk is a costume run that happens on what’s traditionally the “worst” weather day of the year. Hundreds of participants came dressed in costume to run or walk in the 5K or 10K race. Each participant received a winter accessory, a finisher medal and a homemade bowl of soup after the race.

The Worst Day of the Year Run/Ride, originated in Portland, Oregon as a bicycle race. For 17 years, participants would ride their bicycles on what’s traditionally the worst weather day of the year in the Pacific Northwest. McMenamins Anderson School in Bothell has hosted the event for four years. The race starts and ends at the school.

Participants dressed up in costume for The Worst Day of Year Run on January 5 at the McMenamins Anderson School in Bothell. Stephanie Quiroz/staff photo.

Event manager and Oregonian, Tonya Oyala has been involved with the race for six years and has led the Bothell race for all four years.

“The costume contest is a fun way to get people out in the elements during the winter, be a little wacky, have some fun, and also get some good exercise in the new year,” Oyala said. “[It’s about] people getting wacky and enjoying the Pacific Northwest weather in the winter.”

This year, Heifer International was the charity recipient and partner of the event. Heifer is an organization that aims to end hunger and poverty while caring for the Earth. The organization provides livestock and environmentally sound agriculture training to improve the lives of those who struggle for reliable sources of food and income.

Heifer community engagement coordinator Elisa Panek shared how team Heifer in Seattle encourages people to run, walk, bike or swim in events like the run in order to support their mission.

Participants dressed up in costume for The Worst Day of Year Run on January 5. Participants ran a 5K or 10K. Stephanie Quiroz/staff photo.

For Snohomish residents Doug and Jon Vavick, and Kathleen Quirik running the 5K is a fun way to get dressed up. They have participated and dressed up in matching costumes for four years. They added how it’s not too early of a race and that the free beer at the end of the race is a plus.