Poulsbo Half Marathon & 10K - Race Recap
The Poulsbo Half Marathon quickly became one of my favorite races, and I’m so glad I chose it to check Washington off my list in my quest to run a half marathon in all 50 states! I originally signed up because it was the only race near Seattle the weekend my husband and I were in town. What I didn’t expect was how much I’d fall in love with the charming town of Poulsbo and the well-organized race itself. Here’s the full recap of why this race stands out as one of my favorites.
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Exploring Poulsbo: A Pre-Race Treat
Let me just say, Poulsbo is ridiculously cute! Known as "Little Norway," it’s full of Scandinavian charm, with quaint shops, waterfront views, and the coziest small-town vibe. Before the race, we stopped by Sluys Poulsbo Bakery, a local gem that had been highly recommended. We grabbed a Doughboy, and let me tell you—it was everything you’d want from a pre-race carb load: sweet, fluffy, and absolutely delicious. If you’re ever in Poulsbo, this bakery is a must-stop!
The Course: Beautiful but Challenging
The course was an out-and-back loop repeated twice, which meant running a substantial hill not once but twice. The first time wasn’t too bad, and I managed to power through it with plenty of energy. But the second time? Let’s just say it definitely took some of the wind out of my sails.
Despite the hills, the course was absolutely stunning. It wound through scenic areas with lush greenery and waterfront views that made the climbs worth it. Even with the challenging terrain, I came within three minutes of a personal record, which I was thrilled about!
Race Logistics: A+
One of the things I appreciated most about this race was the excellent organization. There were plenty of aid stations along the course, and each one was stocked with water, electrolytes, and a variety of Gu Energy Gels. It’s always nice to have reliable fueling options during a race, especially when the course is as challenging as this one.
The finish line was equally well-stocked with recovery snacks. It was great to cross the finish line knowing I’d be able to refuel right away without scrambling to find something to eat.
Swag: One of a Kind
The race swag for the Poulsbo Half was fantastic. The race shirt was a beautiful color, and the stone medal was so unique - it’s easily one of my favorites in my collection! It’s always a bonus when the swag feels as special as the race itself.
Final Thoughts
Overall, the Poulsbo Half Marathon exceeded my expectations in every way. The stunning course, charming town, and thoughtful organization made it an unforgettable experience. I’d highly recommend this race to anyone looking for a beautiful and well-run event in Washington.
Plus, I’m now a big fan of Orca Running, the organization behind the race, and I’d love to participate in more of their events in the future. If you’re thinking about running this race, don’t hesitate - it’s absolutely worth it.
Have you ever run a race in Washington or participated in an Orca Running event? I’d love to hear about your experience in the comments!
