The annual I Like Pie fun run, organized by Cascade Lakes Relay, took place on November 28, 2025, despite challenging weather conditions. Early morning sleet greeted participants, but the sun soon emerged, drawing a crowd of eager runners and walkers ready to enjoy pie on Thanksgiving morning.
Scott Douglass, the CEO of Cascade Lakes Relay, expressed pride in the resilience of the local community. “Central Oregonians are hardy people and most importantly, they’re focused on getting their run in and their pie,” he stated. This year’s event attracted a record-breaking 5,000 participants, showcasing significant growth in its popularity.
Pie Galore and Community Spirit
The course took runners through the scenic Old Mill area, culminating at Riverbend Park. Participants donned bright I Like Pie hats, perfectly fitting for the chilly weather. Douglass noted, “Overall, this is our biggest year yet,” reflecting on the event’s expansion.
More than 400 pies were provided by Costco, with an array of flavors including apple, pumpkin, and pumpkin cheesecake. The event also catered to diverse dietary needs by offering vegan and gluten-free options. The return of the Perfect Slice challenge added excitement, inviting local bakers to submit their creations for judging. Among the entries, the strawberry rhubarb pie won the coveted title, with votes cast by Bend officials, including Mayor Melanie Kebler and the Deschutes County commissioners.
The fun run was not only a celebration of community but also a significant fundraiser. It raised over $50,000 for the Boys and Girls Clubs of Bend. Michael Baker, the new CEO of the organization, shared his enthusiasm for the community’s turnout and support. “I had so many people, at least three dozen people, come up to me today to say welcome to Bend, we’re happy to have you,” he remarked. Baker emphasized the organization’s commitment to providing access for youth in need, stating, “This type of funding helps with that.”
Community Connections and New Beginnings
Baker, who is in his third week in the role, noted that last year the organization allocated over $40,000 in youth scholarships. He participated in the Perfect Slice contest and voted for the winning strawberry rhubarb pie, although he admitted his favorite flavor is cherry.
Newcomers Jenny and Nick Foster, who recently relocated from Iowa, shared their experience at the event. They discovered it through other races and found it to be an enjoyable way to engage with the local culture. “It was a really fun way to see what Bend is all about,” Jenny Foster said. After the run, the couple enjoyed slices of pumpkin cheesecake pie, and planned to participate in a Friendsgiving celebration, bringing traditional Midwestern dishes to share.
The I Like Pie fun run not only highlighted the community’s spirit but also reinforced the importance of local organizations like the Boys and Girls Clubs of Bend in fostering youth development. As the event concluded, the sense of unity and celebration was palpable, leaving participants eager for next year’s festivities.