The Portland Trail Blazers Rip City Rally is coming to a city near you

In case you were not aware, it is September already. Training camp for the Portland Trail Blazers, which will feature several roster battles, starts on September 27th and will take place in Santa Barbara, California this year instead of the team’s Tualatin Practice Facility. Before they take off for Central California, fans in some Oregon and Southwest Washington cities will get to participate in some Trail Blazers activities to help kick off the season.

The week of September 12-16th, The Rip City Rally will stop at Damian Lillard Toyota on the 12th in McMinnville. The next day, the rally will make its way to the North Oregon Coast, stopping in Tillamook outside the County Pioneer Museum and City Hall. The tour will continue farther north up the coast to Astoria (my hometown), making an appearance outside of the Aquatic Center.

Next, fans in St. Helens can join in on the fun Thursday at McCormick Park. The 2022 Rip City Relay will conclude Friday the 16th at Vancouver’s Esther Short Park. All times are from 4:00-6:00 pm.

"“It is fantastic to be partnering with our friends at Moda once again to safely bring our Rip City Relay to towns across Oregon and Washington after a two-year hiatus. We’re thrilled to hit the road and bring the experience of the Trail Blazers to communities that might not have the opportunity to visit Moda Center during the season.” Trail Blazers and Rose Quarter President Dewayne Hankins via press release."

What takes place at the Rip City Rally? In previous years, fans could get their picture with the Larry O’Brien Championship Trophy. Blaze the Trail Cat, along with other team dignitaries, were part of the adventurous fun. Schools held assemblies with the crew, including games that kids were selected to participate in with Director of Game Operations Todd Bosma, similar to the ones played during game timeouts and meetings with and donations given to city officials.

The Portland Trail Blazers are coming

This year, according to an email sent out by the Blazers, there will be basketball contests and giveaways, including your chance to claim a preseason game ticket (while supplies last) at the Blazers booth.

Here’s your chance to have some Portland Trail Blazers fun you won’t want to miss out on. What a great way to end summer and welcome the 2022-23 season.