Sisters runs into new year

The second annual Resolution Run and Walk attracted 87 participants who decided to start the new year on the move.

Runners and walkers of all ages chose one of three distances - one mile, five kilometers, or five miles - to cover in the non-competitive event.

While the majority of the participants were local, a large group of visitors from McMinnville made the event part of their vacation plan and intend to come back for more of the Sisters Multi-Sport events.

"We centered our stay in Sisters around taking part in this run," said one of the group. "I've done the Peterson Ridge Rumble the past two years and really like coming over here."

Race organizers Josh Nordell and Tate Metcalf noted that attendance for the event was up by over one third.

"It's cool that people got up early on New Year's morning to start 2012 with some exercise," said Nordell. "The goal of Sisters Multi-Sport is to provide a variety of endurance opportunities for locals and visitors."

No times and places were recorded. In fact, Metcalf's instructions at the start stated: "The courses are clearly marked, but honestly you can go where ever you want and turn around early if you want to be the first one back for a donut."

Coming up next from Sisters Multi-Sport is the Hoodoo Snowshoe Shuffle on the evening of Friday, February 17, followed by the popular St. Patty's Day Run a month later on the evening of March 16. Information on these events and others can be found on the website (www.sistersmultisport.com) .

All proceeds, reported at just over $400, will go to the Life Skills program at Sisters High School, which is directed by Nordell.

Sisters Athletic Club and Blazin Saddles bike shop provided sponsorship for the event.