Five- and Ten-kilometer races this spring

If you train with me, you may be feeling pressure to sign up for a race. I don't really believe that everyone will enjoy running, but if you feel like you might, there is nothing like a deadline to keep you motivated.
Here are a select few races you might consider running this spring (click the links to the registration page):

• The Champoeg 30K, 20K, 10K. 3/5/16. I've not done this one, but it's run by the Oregon Road Runner's Club, which puts on a low-pressure, well-organized event. Besides, it's pronounced "Shampooey", which is fun to say. Don't let the longer distances discourage you - it is a very popular 10K run. 
• Tabor Challenge - 4/9/2016. It's a 5K on Mt. Tabor. What could be more fun? Hilly, shady, south-east-y vibe.
• Shamrock - 3/13/16. A Portland institution, and a tremendous number of people. They offer 5K, 8K, 15K, and a half marathon (which I don't personally recommend - the 15K gives the best views, IMO). 8K and up run up Terwilliger, which is hard but rewarding. The 5K stays low and fast along Naito. 15k and HM offer medals.
• Hip Hop Half and 5K 3/26/16. I haven't done this one, but I've done its sister event, the Holiday Half, and it's always a kick. Foot Traffic puts on a fun event, and always reward your effort with a medal the size of a manhole cover. This one runs along Marine Drive, so I'd expect it to be an easy course.
• Race for the Roses 4/17/16. 5K, 10K, and Half Marathon. This is another long-standing Portland tradition, and supports an excellent cause. It's also one of the only (maybe the only) race in town where all of the distances get to cross two downtown bridges.
• Hippie Chick 5/7/16. Half Marathon and Quarter Marathon. (Quarter Marathon is 6.55 miles, so only slightly over 10K). This race has moved around a lot, and now is held the day before Mother's Day in Hillsboro. It's a flat course with great crowds and fun swag, including mimosas at the finish.
• Rum Run 5/21/16. 5K and 10K options. This used to run in Tigard, but looks like they're moving to Beaverton in 2016 (on SW Barrows). Energy Events puts on a fun event, with lots of fanfare, vendors, and great swag. Including rum.
• Up The Lazy River 10K - Monday 5/30 (Memorial Day). A lovely trail-ish course in West Linn. If you've got the 3-day weekend, it's a great chance to sneak in a quick 6.2.

There are many more! These are just my recommendations. Let me know if you're doing any. I'm considering a few of these myself.