Wha’SUP
On Saturday Gorge Performance kicks off its first annual Ross Island SUP—Stand Up Paddle Board—Series. So what is a stand up paddleboarding? Think of it as surfing atop a canoe of sorts (boards can range around 14-feet long). Except here, you’ll trade crashing ocean waves for the wide waters of the Willamette. The 4 mile race, which begins at Oaks Park and circles around Ross Island, is open to anyone and is meant to be a fun introduction to the sport (additional race dates include May 22 and June 12). Still, if gettin’ your paddle on in a loosely competitive environment still sounds intimidating, you can drop by the shop anytime to test out their new fleet of new demo boards. (The shop informed me that if you can sit in a canoe without falling over, you should be able to handle these boards.) Be advised though: wetsuits are recommended and life vests are required for the race series. Check in with Gorge Performance for more details.

Go Lakers
For a more traditional race, head down to Lake Oswego’s Millennium Park Plaza Saturday morning for the 34th Annual Lake Run. The challenging, hilly 12k course winds its way around the entire lake, while the 5k option loops around the scenic Lakewood Bay area. Moms take note: there’s even a half-mile dash for the kids. Proceeds benefit the Lake Oswego Junior Women’s Club. Parrot Creek and William Temple House charities will also be accepting donations of new and gently used clothing and shoes.

Dear Mom: Take a Hike—With Me
Lest you forget, Sunday is Mother’s Day. And if my mom were in town, here’s where I’d take her: Gibbons Creek Wildlife Art Trail. The 2.25 mile trail in the Steigerwald Lake National Wildlife Refuge is nice and flat, there’s no pesky crowds, beautiful Mount Hood views abound, and the surrounding marshes and grasslands should be flush with songbirds this time of year. Plus, as of last week the portions of the trail bordering the trickling Gibbons Creek just opened up after its seasonal closure. Which means there’ll be more room to roam, and not to mention a little extra time to chat with sweet ol’ mom.

Now Get Outta Here!