Fresh Air & Wind in Your Hair 

Ahhhhh! Feel that wind in your hair and smell the fresh air as you partake in this summer's abundance of Central Oregon outdoor events. From marathons to cycle classics, triathlons, relays and kid-friendly feats, you'll find something for any budding athlete or outdoor enthusiast. Getting your butt into gear has never been easier! Happy sweating!

June - August

Bend Elks Baseball

BASEBALL — Not only is baseball an American tradition, Bend Elks baseball has been a staple of summer for more than 18 years. Whether you're looking for an affordable family friendly activity ($2 admission on Tuesdays and kids under 12 free on Wednesdays!) or a spot in the Beer Garden to cheer on the Elks, you'll find it at Vince Genna Stadium every week through August. // Vince Genna Stadium. bendelks.com

July 15

High Cascades 100

MOUNTAIN BIKE — For those who REALLY love mountain biking, this is the race for you. The High Cascades 100 is a fully supported mountain bike event that covers 100 miles, with 75 of those on prime Central Oregon singletrack! Sagebrush Cycles provides support at each aid station. After the event, celebrate with food and beverages from Deschutes Brewery from 1:30-7:30pm. // Athletic Club of Bend. highcascades100.com

July 15

Deschutes Dash

TRIATHLON — One of the most popular races of the year (and that's saying something in this town), the Deschutes Dash features new race courses and finish line activities for its 14th year. This spectator-friendly, multi-sport race allows participants to bring out the entire family for Olympic and Sprint distance races as well as the Kids 5K/10K Splash N' Dash. Come play or come watch! // Riverbend Park. deschutesdash.com

July 15

Women's Dive Day 2017

click to enlarge

• Image by Sarah Depper

SCUBA — Just because we're surrounded by mountains and pine trees instead of beaches and palm trees doesn't mean you can't take advantage of PADI Women's Dive Day! Meet at Central Oregon Diving and then head to Cultus Lake and participate with women diving all over the world. Pre-registration required, so sign up now! Get your diving fix in one of Central Oregon's most beautiful lakes. // Central Oregon Diving. Centraloregondiving.com

July 16

Intro to Randonneuring

BIKING — Are you a serious cyclist? If you'd like to take your cycling skills and personal endurance standards to the next level, gather with other like-minded randonneurs for this unsupported, long distance cycling opportunity. The day starts at 8:30am with information about randonneuring and the history. At 9am, take off on a 63-mile out-and-back ride on mostly low traffic roads with two places to refuel. // Sunriver. Orrandonneurs.org

July 18-23, July 26-30

Oregon High Desert Classics

HORSES — This 28th annual fundraiser for all J Bar J Youth Services Programs attracts over 600 horses and 3,000 professional and amateur competitors from all over the U.S. and Canada. This USA Equestrian AA-Rated show takes place on one of the few grass footing rings left, while spectators enjoy viewing the athletic skill of the horses and riders. Each Saturday night features a Grand Prix dinner and front row seats to watch riders compete for a $25,000 purse. // J Bar J Youth Services. oregonhighdesertclassics.org

July 19-23

Cascade Cycling Classic

CYCLING — There are Bend traditions and then there's the Cascade Cycling Classic. The 38th annual event is the longest consecutively running elite stage race in the country. Every year, North America's top cyclists and teams gather in Bend to race on quality courses in beautiful Central Oregon. The atmosphere has made it a favorite not only of competitors, but also of spectators that crowd the streets of downtown for the popular criterion races. // Various Locations, Bend. cascade-classic.org

July 22

Under Armour Mountain Running Series

RUNNING — Thought it was hard running at 3,600 feet above sea level in Bend? Want to challenge your personal endurance and elevation running skills? Under Armour brings its Mountain Running Series to Mt. Bachelor for the ultimate elevation running challenge. The Under Armour Running Series includes a 50K, marathon, marathon relay, half marathon, 10K and 5K races for competitors looking to take on the challenge.

Elevation gain is the name of the game and ranges from a 575-foot increase in the 5K to 4,802 feet for the 50K. Talk about intense! All of the races vary slightly, but include elevation gain, amazing views, volcanic features and a combination of single track, Nordic trails and service roads. Run through shady and dense forests—which you'll be thankful for in the July heat. The 5K and 10K both take runners through the mountain bike cross country course.

After the races, join fellow competitors and spectators for an awards ceremony and post-race celebration. The 50K race includes cash prizes for both the male and female winners — $1,500 for first place, $750 for second place and $250 for third place. Spectators and competitors can enjoy scenic chairlift rides, disc golf, hikes and more at Mt. Bachelor throughout the weekend. Your family will love the atmosphere and you'll prove to all your friends what a true badass you are when you conquer a freaking volcano. // Mt. Bachelor. uamountainrunning.com

July 22

Bend's Classic Mile

RUN — One of the fastest and more exciting races of the year, the Bend Classic Mile takes place during the 15 minutes between the men's and women's criterium races of the Cascade Cycling Classic. Pulse-pounding, the downtown foot race includes 14,000 spectators, and competitors must be able to finish in nine minutes due to time constraints. This will no doubt be one of the most intense and exhilarating miles you've ever run! // Footzone. Footzonebend.com

July 22

Run for the Birds

RUN/WALK — Not only does this fun 5k run/walk feature stunning views of Mt. Bachelor, the meadows and Central Oregon wildlife, it's also a fundraiser for the Sunriver Nature Center and Oregon Observatory. Kids can participate in a 1k race as well! After the run, enjoy an awards ceremony and post-race celebration. All runners receive a medal and 1st, 2nd and 3rd place finishers both male and female win a one-night stay at Sunriver Resort. // Sunriver Resort. Sunriver-resort.com

July 29

Deschutes River Cleanup

VOLUNTEER — Lots of people love the Deschutes River. Whether you're a fisherman, a paddleboarder or just love floating along everyone's favorite stretch in the Old Mill, many have enjoyed the spoils of a rad river running through town. Now, give back to the river that has provided so much for our community. Bring your paddleboard, kayak or canoe and help the Central Oregon Divers pull garbage out of the Deschutes River. Register to volunteer at UpperDeschutesWatershedCouncil.org. // Riverbend Park. upperdeschuteswatershedcouncil.org

July 29

The Hoodoo Challenge - Run to the Top

MOUNTAIN RUN — Ever thought about running up a mountain? Now, here's your chance! With a half marathon for runners and walkers, The Hoodoo Challenge starts at Corbett Parking Area off Highway 20 and ends at the top of Hoodoo. Follow scenic trails with views of Island Lake, Link Lake and Sand Camp Lake with a 1,035-foot climb. Walk back down the mountain for an after party at the Hoodoo Lodge parking area. // Hoodoo Lodge. sisterskiwanis.org/runtothetop/

August 4-5

Cascade Lakes Relay

RUN — If hills, gorgeous views and trail-running are your jam, then the Cascade Lakes Relay is for you! Traveling through the Oregon Outback, rolling farmlands, up to Mt. Bachelor and back down to Bend, this is a challenging and spectacular course for the avid runner. // All day. Cascade Lakes Highway, Bend. cascaderelays.com

August 4-5

Ghost Tree Invitational

GOLF & DINNER — Not just a double shotgun golf tourney, this is also quite the foodie fest with up to 17 of the best regional chefs and 12 wineries and breweries showcasing their tasty delights. Come party with 1800 of your newest friends as you soak in the setting sun rays at beautiful Pronghorn Resort.

In between food samples, bid on a silent auction and vacay packages that benefit several Central Oregon youth charities. Last year's fundraiser raised $80,000! Street performers, drummers and Precious Byrd provide live music and entertainment to keep this party rolling well into the night. // 7:30am or 1:30pm golf times, 5pm dinner start. Pronghorn Resort, Bend. Ghosttreeinvitational.com

August 5

Sunriver Summer Stampede

FUNDRAISER — Providing support for our four-legged friends, 3 Sisters Equine Refuge and Sunriver Stables join together for this family-friendly fundraiser event that benefits rescued horses. Revelers will see running of horses, enjoy pony and carriage rides, sip on local wines and brews and see horse training demos, all while helping this great cause! // 4:30-7pm, Sunriver Stables, Sunriver. 3sistersequine.com

August 10

Deschutes Brewery Twilight 5K Run/Walk

RUN — In this hot summer heat, a twilight run for charity is just the ticket to get you moving and grooving. With a walk option, this 5K is an easy and fun feat for the whole family. Post race snacks, Twilight brews and live music finish off this fun event. // 7pm. Deschutes Brewery Warehouse loading dock, Bend. superfitproductions.com

August 12

Haulin' Aspen Marathon, Half Marathon, Half-As

RUN — Voted #1 by Trail Runner Magazine, this is the only Central Oregon marathon that's raced completely on forest trails. Feel the breeze and smell the scent of ponderosa pines as you compete in one of the most scenic races of the summer. Post race sees tasty foods and craft beers in this benefit for the Bend Endurance Academy. As a bonus, this race is also a points qualifier for Trail Runner Magazine's Trophy Series. // 7am. Wanoga Sno Park, Bend. haulinaspen.com

August 12

Shriners Run For a Child 5K/10K

RUN — A benefit for kids receiving care from Shriners Hospitals for Children, this is a terrific event in which entire families can run or walk for an exceptional cause. Kid-friendly activities, a silent auction, prizes and a tasty BBQ follow the run. // 9am. Riverbend Park, Bend. centraloregonshriners.org/run-for-a-child

August 12

Relay for Life

WALK — Cancer patients can't stop if they're tired, and for one night, participants will follow in their footsteps as they take turns walking around a track or designated path for anything from 6 to 24 hours straight. A unique fundraiser for the American Cancer Society. // 10am. Pilot Butte Middle School, Bend. footzonebend.com

August 13

Bike the Bridges

CYCLE — Celebrate the various bike bridges throughout Bend in this family-friendly bike ride that tours eight of our bridges with fellow bike enthusiasts. This 8-mile route is mostly paved, with an additional 4 miles for more advanced gear heads. // 5-7pm. The Gear Fix, Bend. envirocenter.org/event/bike-the-bridges

August 19

Culver Crawdad Festival

BIKE & EATS — A scenic 25-mile-long bicycle poker ride with stops along the way to draw a card. Finish your ride with a tasty crawdad festival the weekend before the solar eclipse. // 7-9:30am. Culver Veterans Memorial Park, Culver. cityofculver.net

August 19

Monkey Face Half Marathon and 4-miler

RUN — What's better than a race staged between the beautiful canyons of Smith Rock and stunning Monkey Face? Racers can opt in for a 4-miler or go all the way with a half marathon. Post-race refreshments provided by Deschutes Brewery. // 8am. Smith Rock State Park, Terrebonne. pinkbuffaloracing.com

August 26

Beat Beethoven's 5th 5K Fun Run/Walk

RUN/WALK — Support the Central Oregon Symphony with this family-friendly 5K run or 1-mile walk. Finish before Beethoven's famous 5th Symphony finishes... don't worry, it's a whopping 33 minutes long! // 9-10:30am. COCC Campus Track, Bend. beatbeethoven5k.com

August 26

Every Mile Counts Half-Marathon Relay, 5K, Kids Run

RUN — Partake in a canyon trail run that's sure to be spectacular in this second annual charity event benefitting the Central Christian School. For the entire family — featuring a kids run, half-marathon and 5K. // 7:30am. American Legion Park, Redmond. footzonebend.com

August 30-September 5

Deschutes Daze Orienteering Festival

ORIENTEERING — Are you looking to take your orienteering to the next level? The Deschutes Daze Orienteering Festival takes place over Labor Day Weekend, featuring one advanced course each day averaging a distance of 4.5-kilometers. There will be no posted results, but an e-punch system will be used for those wanting to compare splits. The events are located in and around Arnold Ice Cave, Dutchman Flat, Lava Butte and much more. // Various Locations, Bend. croc.org

September 2-3

Sunriver Half Marathon for a Cause

RUN — Head down to Sunriver for the 7th annual Half Marathon for a Cause. The event welcomes people of all ages to participate and consists of a half marathon, 5K and kids dash. Proceeds benefit St. Charles Cancer Services. // Sunriver Resort Lodge. Sunrivermarathon.com

September 9

Oregon 12/24 Mountain Bike Relay

MOUNTAIN BIKING — Check out this two-in-one event featuring mountain biking and camping. The Oregon 12/24 Mountain Bike Relay begins at Wanoga Snow Park and continues on an 11-mile loop featuring segments of some of Bend's most famous trails. The night ends back at Wanoga for RV and tent camping with Pine Mountain Sports, Lights & Motion and Mudslinger Events. This bike race welcomes people of all ages and abilities. // Wanoga Sno Park. oregonmtb24.com

September 9

2017 Central Oregon Walk to Defeat ALS

WALK — Want to participate in a scenic walk and help a great cause? Over 850 people congregate in Riverbend Park and then hit the Deschutes River Trail for this event, walking 3 miles to the finish line. There is no entry fee, but walk participants contribute to ALS research and local patient service programs by collecting donations in a variety of different ways. // Riverbend Park. web.alsa.org

September 9

MAC Dash Sprint Triathlon

TRIATHLON — Meet at the Madras Aquatic Center (MAC) for this family-friendly event. Participants can enjoy scenic mountain views and warm, sunny temperatures during the race, which features running, swimming and biking legs. Happening later the same morning, the Mini MAC Dash is a free race for children 10 and under. // Madras Aquatic Center. footzonebend.com

September 10

Bigfoot Races

RUN — This running series offers something for everyone. The Bigfoot 10K is a downhill road race venturing down Century Drive from the Seventh Mountain Resort to Deschutes Brewery. For those who prefer trail running, the Dirtyfoot 10K starts and ends in the same place as the Bigfoot 10K, but roams into the forest for a fun cross-country event. Lastly, the Kids Littlefoot races vary in length depending on age, and begins at 10am at the finish arena. The Bigfoot Races are Bend's oldest and fastest, family-friendly event, so don't miss out on the fun! // Seventh Mountain Resort. footzonebend.com

September 15

Nitro Circus Live

MULTISPORT — If daredevils launching off jumps and over cars is your thing, this is the event for you. The Nitro Circus Live is a touring action sports show featuring the most dangerous tricks with anything on wheels. Known to feature fire, big air and the most daring athletes around, this event is a thriller from start to finish. // Vince Genna Stadium. nitrocircus.com

September 16

SOAR Activity Day for People with Physical Disabilities

OUTSIDE — From rock climbing to kayaking to balance training to painting class, this all-inclusive activities day has it all. SOAR! is a fun event for people with physical disabilities to stay active and enjoy the many sports and activities Bend has to offer. The event costs $25 per person and includes access to activities, local transportation, catered lunch, 21 oz Hydro Flask and one family member joins for free. // Bend Pavilion. Destinationrehab.org

September 17

Bend Open Streets

VARYING ACTIVITIES — Bike, walk, skate, hop, wheel, run...whatever your active transportation option, this is your day to explore your city on foot with other like-minded community members. Two and one-half miles of Bend streets will be closed to cars and will form a loop so Bendites and visitors can explore the roads in a fun and safe environment.

Grab your bike or just bring your walking shoes and explore the various fun-filled and family-friendly events on offer such as games, obstacle courses, food samples, merchants and vendors. Last year even saw a silent disco party and life-sized, human foosball! See demos of neighborhood greenway options, mini roundabouts and traffic calming devices.

Bend Open Streets opens the city to the public, encouraging dancing, socializing and adventuring while advocating for a more walkable city. // Bend, Oregon. Commuteoptions.org

September 17

Flagline 50K

RUN — Calling all avid runners! The Flagline 50K running trail promises to challenge and impress. Set on the dirt trails around Mt. Bachelor, this long distance running race offers 4000 feet of climbing and scenic mountain views. The fun, relaxed vibes make this an ultra-running event like no other. // Dutchman Flat. superfitproductions.com

September 17

High Alpine Half

RUN — Taking place the same day as the Flagline 50K, this running event is a shorter version of the race, while still offering the same scenic views and location. The course overlaps many beautiful segments of the Flagline 50K trail, featuring Hemlock forests, alpine meadows and mountain views. The event also provides three aid stations for runners in need of some water and electrolytes. This race is 13.1-miles of fun and fresh air, so don't miss it! // Mt. Bachelor Sunrise Lodge. Superfitproductions.com

September 23-28

Pacific Amateur Golf Classic

GOLF — Celebrating its 21st year, the Pacific Amateur Golf Classic promises a memorable tournament. This prestigious event takes place on the nationally renowned Crosswater Course in Sunriver and welcomes golfers of various skill levels. All players in all divisions play three rounds of golf over the span of the 3-day tournament. This beautiful event fills up quickly, so interested golfers should register as soon as possible. // Sunriver Resort. Pacamgolf.com