Trail runners take on Peterson Ridge

Nearly 280 runners took to the trails around Sisters on Sunday, April 13, for the sixth annual Peterson Ridge Rumble 60-kilometer and 30-kilometer trail run.

Race director Sean Meissner reported that 114 runners completed the shortened 60-kilometer course (34+ miles), while 154 completed the lengthened 30-kilometer course. A few starters were unable to finish due to injuries.

The longer course, shortened due to snowy conditions on the upper trail, still provided plenty of challenge, especially with temperatures reaching the 70s, according to Meissner.

"Nobody was quite adapted to the warm weather, so the aide stations were busy giving out water and electrolyte drinks," he said.

Dan Olmstead of Eugene cruised to an 11-minute win in 3 hours 51 minutes and 25 seconds for the 60 kilometer course.

Kami Semick of Bend was the top woman finisher, placing eighth overall in 4:22:17.

A number of local runners took part in the shorter course, measured actually at 32 kilometers, with Casey Glick coming through in fifth place (2:15) to lead the way.

Andy Martin of Bend won the race in 2:03:27, and Emily Kalenius of Corvallis topped the women's field in 2:28:15.

Gene Trahern and his son Garrett continued their tradition of running together, along with Mason Calmettes. All three were timed in 4:16:27. The two teenagers, 13, were the youngest finishers. Don Hildebrand, 76, of Sisters was the oldest. Hildebrand finished in 4:36:09.

Other local finishers included Joel Palunek (2:36:52), Dan Rife (3:11:48), Sisters Elementary P.E. teacher Ashleigh Thomas (3:19:29) and her friend Char Sandstrom (3:19:29).

Members of the Sisters High School cross country team and parents manned aid stations, directed traffic and helped with the post-race barbecue. In return, Meissner plans to donate all proceeds of the race to help support the team, which is only partially funded by the school district.

Complete race results are available at http://www.time2race.com.