Harkins Transform Portland’s Running Scene Through Community Engagement

Dave and Paula Harkin have redefined what it means to be part of the running community in Portland, Oregon. Their journey began in the late 1990s, when they first met during a group run. Dave, a recent transplant from Seattle, was working as a running supply salesman. He immediately noticed Paula, a running coach engaged with her athletes. “I was immediately transfixed,” Dave recalls. “In a sea of people, I was like, oh my gosh, that is my person.”

Over the past 25 years, their shared passion for running has blossomed into a thriving community initiative. The couple now owns two run specialty stores, the Portland Running Company, and has established several award-winning races through their organization, Run With Paula Events. Together, they have created accessible and welcoming environments for runners of all levels, from novices to seasoned marathoners.

Building a More Inclusive Running Community

Both Paula and Dave entered the world of running through different paths, which ultimately equipped them to foster community connections. Dave joined the University of Oregon’s track and cross-country team, competing under the guidance of renowned coach Bill Dellinger. In contrast, Paula discovered her love for running in her 20s, prompted by coworkers who invited her on lunch runs. “What a connection it is that you can process life with people while exercising,” Paula reflects.

In 2000, when the original owners of the Portland Running Company sought retirement, the Harkins seized the opportunity to purchase the store. At that time, the specialty running market felt exclusive, catering primarily to hardcore athletes. Dave commented, “Specialty in general was just not open. It was just for split-short-wearing, Power Bar-eating, Gatorade-drinking people.” With a commitment to inclusivity, they aimed to create a store for everyone, not just those training for marathons.

While juggling their business and raising two children, the Harkins initiated free group runs throughout downtown Portland. They now host four weekly runs, including easy-paced sessions, trail runs, and track workouts. Paula also created a training group for mothers at a local fitness club, which quickly expanded from 15 participants to 80. This success inspired the launch of Run With Paula Events, a race series aimed at promoting the benefits of running, particularly for women.

Inspiring Generations Through Running

The Harkins’ initiative has led to the organization of eight major races across the Pacific Northwest, including the Beaverton Half Marathon, Hippie Chick Half Marathon, and Helvetia Half Marathon. “This is my calling,” Paula states. “I get to share the ways to keep running and find a community through running that fits your lifestyle and your needs.”

Setting an example for the community, both Paula and Dave maintain impressive running streaks, completing at least one mile every day. They have also inspired many of their customers to embark on their own running journeys. With over 40 marathons completed, including six of the World Marathon Majors, the Harkins demonstrate their dedication to the sport.

In addition to their business ventures, Paula has made significant contributions to an underserved community in Portland. For seven years, she led a run club affiliated with the Union Gospel Mission, supporting individuals facing homelessness, addiction, and abuse. Some participants even went on to race in the Portland Marathon.

The Harkins have designed their stores—located in Portland and Beaverton—to feel like community hubs. They aim to create a “clubhouse feel” where everyone is welcome, and where people can linger long after their runs. In 2019, they further enhanced this atmosphere by opening The Run Pub, an in-store bar serving local Oregon beers.

As they celebrate the 30th anniversary of the Portland Running Company, the Harkins take pride in seeing families across generations return to their stores. Customers who once purchased their first pair of trainers now bring their children in for cross-country spikes. For the Harkins, these moments epitomize the lifelong connections fostered through running.

“We want people to know running changes your life,” Paula emphasizes. “It’s like, come on in, let’s make a plan, let’s do it. If we can be a part of that, then we want to be.”