While the racers may have a tough go at it during the 2010 Deschutes Dash Weekend Sports Festival, watching the race unfold couldn’t be easier for spectators. From the flag footbridge in Bend’s Old Mill District, onlookers can catch the action in the swim portion of the race as triathletes make their way from Farewell Bend Park to the Les Schwab Amphitheater.

From the footbridge, it’s just a few short paces to see the swimmers as they jog to the transition area and make their way out onto the bike course. Spectators then have ample opportunities to catch the final stage of the race: the run. Participants in the triathlons, duathlons and running races pass the flag footbridge multiple times during their events, making it an ideal spot for viewing and encouraging the competitors.

Race organizers ask spectators to keep all run course paths clear for race participants, and to avoid clogging transition entrances and exit areas.

Expect delays

Motorists can expect delays, route detours and road closures from 8 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Saturday and from 8 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Sunday on and near the Deschutes Dash bike course. Roads affected include Columbia Street, Colorado Avenue and Century Drive. With approximately 800 cyclists expected on the Century Drive course on both Saturday and Sunday, vehicle drivers are urged to proceed with caution.

— Heather Clark; graphics by Greg Cross