Running commentary...

A number of local runners had notable performances in races this fall, including the high school boys cross country team which placed third at the state meet.

A few middle and high school runners continued racing into November through the USATF Junior Olympic State and Regional Championships. Parker Bennett placed 11th at the regional meet in Seattle in his age group, and sixth grader Elizabeth Stewart placed 20th, which qualified both for the national meet, if they choose to enter.

Sisters High School graduate Stefan Redfield helped Willamette University place 27th at the NCAA Division III meet in Indiana, finishing the eight-kilometer (4.9 miles) race in 26:16.

The Glick family of Sisters flashed some speed in Eugene earlier this month, as Casey finished sixth overall in the EWEB Run to Stay Warm half marathon in 1:18:39, while his sister Rikki placed third in the accompanying five-kilometer race in 20:27.

Bennett was at it again last week, as he held off Sean Meissner, also of Sisters, to win the "I Like Pie" run on Thanksgiving in Bend. Those who know anything about Parker's appetite can well imagine his level of motivation in a race involving getting pie at the finish.

The fall is drawing to a close in Central Oregon and we have not yet had the traditional early snow that makes running a challenge. In fact, we have been enjoying some unseasonably pleasant weather, which has kept the trails clear and in optimal condition. That's sure to change soon, but if you get a chance in the next few days, check out all the new offshoots of the trails in the Buck Run/Peterson Ridge system.

Since the additions all connect back up with more established trails, it's pretty easy to run a new route without worrying about getting lost. I especially like the new connector southwest of Eagle Rock.

We should all be thankful for the volunteers from the Sisters Trails group that have made it all happen.

Last winter, I found the gravel roads and cindered shoulders around Sisters to work well when there was snow and a little ice. If you can get out when the snow is fresh, it's not too bad, but once the icy layer gets established, it can be downright treacherous to run. Some runners have added 'studs' to their shoes by screwing sheet metal screws into the soles while others have gone with shoe chains, available at running stores and REI.

Of course, others head indoors, but you have to admit there is nothing like an early morning run in two or three inches of light, Central Oregon snow.

Winter running opportunities: Hot Chocolate Runs take place the second Sunday of each month through March at 9 a.m. at Shevlin Park. Hot chocolate, coffee, bagels served at the conclusion of five- to eight-mile trail runs. Dan Harshburger organizes these runs and can be reached at [email protected] .

Other events, including the annual Jingle Bell five-kilometer race on December 6 in downtown Bend, are listed at the Fleet Feet Web site at http://www.fleetfeetbend.com/races and on the Foot Zone Web site at http://www.footzonebend.com/events/races.