The coveted Bill Earhart ceramic mug, the singular “trophy” bestowed at the annual Pole Pedal Paddle, has become somewhat of a lighthearted status symbol in Bend. Its widespread presence has even birthed a locally-used verb: “mugging.” Yet talk to anyone who’s been involved in the legendary Bachelor-to-Bend race that takes place in late May, and you’ll realize that the event is about more than posting a winning time.
Dating back to 1976, this event played a pivotal role in establishing Bend as the athletic hub it is today. Spanning six segments—alpine and Nordic skiing, running, biking, and kayaking—the race showcases Bend’s favorite sports, guiding participants, whether competing solo, in pairs, or as teams, from Mt. Bachelor’s Red Chair to the Old Mill District. With roughly 3,000 participants annually, nearly half from outside the region, its allure extends far beyond local borders.
And it’s an appeal that lies less in athletic prowess and more in the joyful sense of community prevailing throughout the day. The race welcomes all, and longtime attendees know that the competition is as much about the best costume as it is about the fastest time. While it’s often assumed that only the athletically gifted participate, diversity is the race’s true charm. Athletes of varying ages and skill levels, racing individually or as part of a team, find themselves united by a shared passion for sport and a desire to push personal boundaries.
As racers tackle each leg of the course—be it the adrenaline-fueled sprint uphill at Mt. Bachelor’s Red Chair, the exhilarating Nordic course, the scenic descent into town, the riverside run along the Deschutes River, or the paddle through the Old Mill—they are uplifted by the collective encouragement of spectators and fellow competitors alike.
This atmosphere of encouragement and camaraderie sets the Pole Pedal Paddle apart as more than just a race—it’s a celebration of community spirit. Dedicated volunteers kick-start the event at dawn, setting up stations from the Old Mill to Mt. Bachelor, while enthusiastic spectators, rain or shine, line the route offering unwavering support. From the whimsical costumes to the friendly competition among participants, the Pole Pedal Paddle fosters a vibrant spirit of community.
Extending beyond race day, the Pole Pedal Paddle serves as MBSEF’s largest annual fundraiser, providing crucial support for the organization’s efforts to offer life-changing athletic programs to over 800 athletes each year. In doing so, it embodies Bend’s dedication to nurturing the next generation of athletes and fostering a legacy of excellence both on and off the field.
In a city experiencing rapid growth, this enduring tradition unites the Bend community in the joy of outdoor recreation, friendly competition, and support for the community as a whole. Its legacy is deserving of celebration, inviting a collective toast—perhaps, with a mug in hand.
Click here to check out the 2024 Pole Pedal Paddle. | Click here to check out the Pole Pedal Paddle website.
