2023 Arctic Dash

By Emily Tittle

It’s challenging. It’s messy. It’s for a good cause. And it’s FUN.

If you haven’t tried the Arctic Dash yet, you’re missing out!

It’s held annually at YMCA Camp Kern, in Oregonia (just outside of Lebanon). It’s an approximately 6K obstacle course race throughout camp’s 485 acres. There’s more than 20 challenges you will try.

This year marks 10 years for the event. So far, it’s raised more than $75,000 for camp scholarships. Children who otherwise would not be able to afford to spend a week at summer camp, get to experience the magic at Kern, because of you! Who wouldn’t want to support such a great cause?

For the first time, Camp is allowing kids 7 and up to run the course with a parent or guardian. It will not include any immersed water obstacles and could be shortened a bit based on race day conditions. This will be the last wave of the day, at 11:30 a.m.

After you run, there’s warm water hose-offs and showers and a big, heated space for post-race hanging out.

Race day is Saturday, December 3 at Camp Kern. Waves start at 10 a.m. and run every 15 minutes until 11:30 a.m., which is the family wave.

Are you super competitive? The competition wave starts at 10 a.m. It’s limited to 30 runners and prizes will be awarded. You must complete all obstacles and there may be penalty loops for a failed attempt.

Walk-ins day of will be accepted, but wave time and shirt/medal availability are not guaranteed.

Check it out. After all, it’s a great cause for the kids!