
From the Organizer
Grindfest is one long progression run originally developed in Milwaukee, Wisconsin in 2013. The race/workout has now been spread all over the world, arriving in Portland in 2019.
The rules are simple - start at either 9 minute mile pace (wave 1) or 8 minute mile pace (wave 2) or 7 minute pace (wave 3) and progress 20 seconds every mile (3 laps to a mile at Benson!). You stay in as long as you can until you can no longer grind the pace down any further and you wave the white flag.
Benson's newly resurfaced track is a one-of-a-kind 4 lane 535 meter track where 3 laps is around 1 mile. It's a beautiful facility that is perfect for grinding out a long progression run.
This year the Portland Grindfest will serve as a fundraiser for Benson Cross Country as we’re raising funds to help cover travel costs for end-of-season meets where runners have the chance to compete against top talent and create lasting memories. Your donation helps provide transportation, lodging, meals, and the opportunity for every athlete to finish the season strong—no matter their financial situation. Thank you for supporting Benson Cross Country!
Events
Weather
It's too far out for a forecast, so here's what weather on this date is normally like in the area. A race day forecast will replace this as race week approaches.
Typical High
81°
Typical Low
59°
Chance of Rain
10%
Based on US Climate Normals data from Portland Kgw-Tv, 3 mi from the venue.
Host City
Population
642,715
as of 2023
City Elevation
35 ft
Nearest Airport
PDX
Portland International Airport · 6 mi
Time Zone
Pacific Time
From Endurance Grid
A big city race. Expect multiple lodging options and plenty to do the day before.
Race Location
Your Next Start Line
Every finish line starts with a single decision. Claim your spot at The Portland Grindfest - August 14th @ 6pm at Benson High School!, put it on the calendar, and turn “someday” into a start date.
58
Days to train
Coming Up
Salmonberry Corridor Fundraiser & Listening Tour
2 miles away
Rose City Relays
Less than a mile away
09/05/25: Lakad for Rights
2 miles away
GTD - Go The Distance 5K Fun Run/Walk and Kids Dash
3 miles away
From Endurance Grid
Endurance Grid is here to help you understand the sport, decide if it’s the right fit, and learn how to prepare. For course distances, logistics, and race-day specifics, always defer to the race organizer’s event page.
With running, there's a distance for every fitness level, a community at every start line, and nothing beats the feeling of crossing a finish line you trained for.
Running is an endurance sport that rewards consistency, and showing up every week compounds in ways that will surprise you.
From 5K to marathon, running races are the most accessible entry point into endurance sport. There's a distance for every fitness level and a community at every start line.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
The Portland Grindfest - August 14th @ 6pm at Benson High School!
Aug 14, 2026