Runners trek forests for Sisters Poker Run

The fifth annual Sisters Poker Run was held on Sunday, October 19, under sunny skies.

Thirty-five runners ranging from world-class athletes to those that have never run more than seven miles participated on single-track trails and dirt roads around the Sisters Country.

The Sisters Poker Run is more about camaraderie than competition. The Poker Run levels the playing field, as the awards are given to the runners with the best poker hand from a card drawn at each aid station and at the finish, resulting in a possible six cards. The runners' five best cards are then used for their final poker hand. 

The course this year consisted of mostly single-track trails, many of which were recently constructed as part of the Peterson Ridge Trail expansion project. Runners climbed up Eagle Rock for fantastic views, then up Peterson Ridge, and along Whychus Creek to connect to the Metolius Windigo Trail where they turned around near the lower snow gate.

On the return trip, the runners crossed Whychus Creek and used the Sisters Trail which follows the west side of the creek down to where they crossed again at the dispersed camping area near mile three on Three Creek Road. The course then followed the new horse connector trail back to Peterson Ridge trail system and back to town. Maps can be found at http://www.sisterstrails.com.

In all, 25 runners finished the 37-mile course, while another seven runners opted for a 21-mile loop.

The run concluded with a barbecue and awards ceremony at Village Green Park.

The event was sponsored by The North Face, with additional prizes donated by Footzone and Fleet Feet running stores in Bend. Michael Cartwright of Bellevue, Washington won the event with a full house of jacks and fours. Gary Redwine of McMinnville won a quilt made by Marci Trahern in a random drawing.

Proceeds from the event go to the development and maintenance of Sisters trails.