The Prefontaine Memorial Run, set for September 19, 2026, in Coos Bay, Oregon, invites runners to experience a challenging 10K road race steeped in the legacy of American distance running icon Steve Prefontaine. This isn't just a race; it's a pilgrimage, tracing one of Pre's actual training routes through his hometown. The course is famously "rolling and challenging," with participants encountering significant hills, including the notorious "Agony Hill," ensuring a true test of grit and endurance. The run begins near the Prefontaine monument in downtown Coos Bay, winds along Ocean Boulevard, passes his family home, and culminates with a memorable finish on the Prefontaine Track at Marshfield High School, where his legendary career began.

Runners can anticipate typical race day conditions around Coos Bay in mid-September, with comfortable highs around 67°F and lows around 51°F, alongside a minimal 8% chance of precipitation. The event maintains a high-caliber reputation, reflecting the deep passion of the Coos Bay community for its hometown hero. Aid stations, offering water and portable toilets, are strategically placed along the course to support runners through this demanding journey. Every finisher receives a commemorative medal (while supplies last) and a celebration t-shirt, and top male and female finishers in the 10K also compete for prize money, adding an extra layer of competition.

Participating in the Prefontaine Memorial Run offers more than just a physical challenge; it's an opportunity to connect with the enduring spirit of Steve Prefontaine, whose determination continues to inspire. The race environment is enriched by the historic backdrop of Coos Bay, featuring a commemorative monument and a permanent collection of Pre's awards and memorabilia at the Coos Art Museum. This well-organized and welcoming event is a powerful tribute, inviting runners to truly "give anything less than their best is to sacrifice the gift" in the very footsteps of a legend.