Runners honor memory of Kevin Johnson

Just before the start of Saturday’s annual Kevin Johnson Memorial Run and Walk, Sisters High School activities director Michelle Herron took a few moments to talk about Kevin Johnson and the impact he had during his time as a Sisters High School student.

He came to Sisters from Bend lacking some of the credits he needed to graduate, but shortly after his arrival he really turned things around and became one of the most well-liked, spirited members of the student body, she said.

He eventually served as senior class president.

Kevin died after being struck by a racing motorcycle in 1995.

A total of nearly 50 participants took part in the memorial event. Money raised from the race will go to the Kevin Johnson Memorial Scholarship, which is awarded to a graduating senior chosen by the senior class for showing the personality and characteristics that Kevin exhibited.

Sean Meissner of Sisters was the overall winner of the eight-kilometer run. He cruised through the course in 30:41.

Just prior to the race, Meissner presented the Sisters High School cross country team with a check for $1,500 from the proceeds of last month’s Peterson Ridge Rumble ultra-marathon.

Siobhan Cooper captured the overall women’s title in 36:13.

In the three-kilometer fun-run Beau Gibney ran 13:46 for the win and Jena Rickards was the first female.

Her time was not available. Victoria Deleone navigated the eight-kilometer walk in 1:02:23 to lead a group of eight walkers who took part in the event.

Other age group winners in the eight-kilometer run include: (under 18) Nyk Tripp and Marigrace Marshall; (18-25) Stephen Hyde and Jenni Burke; (36-45) Greg Eyerly and Diane Stewart; (46-55) Scott Abrams and Cathy Marshall; (56-65) Drew Ittershagen and Marcia Tripiano; (over 65) Don Hildebrand.

Herron believes that the event raised between $400 and $500 toward the scholarship.