Memorial Run raises money for scholarship

Participants were treated to a beautiful spring morning Saturday, April 8, for the fourth Kevin Johnson Memorial Run held at Sisters High School.

Kevin Johnson graduated in 1993 from Sisters High School and died after being hit by a motorcycle in 1996. The event is sponsored each year by the high school leadership class to raise funds for a scholarship honoring Kevin.

Members of the senior class nominate students for the award who share some of the traits Kevin is remembered for, including enthusiasm, school spirit, and helpfulness.

Eight walkers set off on the 8-kilometer course half an hour before the runners.

Among the walkers were high school principal Boyd Keyser and his wife Marti, and Pinky Pagano, whose son Gabriel received the scholarship in 1997.

"I felt good out there, and to get to the top of the hill and see the beautiful view of the mountains was exhilarating," said Pagano.

Pagano was the first walker to complete the course.

Prior to the start of the 8-kilometer run and 3-kilometer fun run and walk, Jerry Johnson, Kevin's father, thanked everyone for supporting the memory of his son.

"The students do a great job in putting this run on every year and my wish is for the scholarship to be offered forever," he said.

Race director Ashley Reed then sent the runners and walkers on their way.

Andy Fectau of Bend cruised to victory, posting a winning time of 28:28. Kelly Davis, who spearheaded the event as a senior in 1997, won the women's division in 38:08.

Jerry Johnson crossed the line in first place among 3-kilometer participants.

Age group results: Men: 13-18 Jordan Beck; 25-29 Monty Gregg; 30-34 Andy Fectau; 35-39 Charlie Kanzig; 40-44 Scott Abrams; 45-49 Dennis Dempsey; 50-54 Richard Shultz; 55-59 Jack Walsh; 60-69 John Hornbeck.

Women: 19-24 Kelly Davis; 35-39 Deirdre Kanzig; 40-44 Mary Lesowske; 50-54 Vicki Hornbeck; Marcia Tripiano 55-59.