Fourth of July run a blast

The annual Sisters Recycle Run and Walk attracted a healthy crowd on a beautiful morning July 4, with over 50 participants combined involved in the 5-kilometer and 8-kilometer courses.

Race director Julia Rickards reported that a record number of walkers took part this year and everyone felt pleased with the courses in what she described as a "down-home, low-key" event. Both courses took place on the lower reaches of the Peterson Ridge Trail system and finished at Creekside Park.

"Person after person commented on how much they loved the trails," said Rickards. "I even got an email of thanks after the event from one of the participants who expressed how much they love and appreciate this event."

The Recycle Run benefits Sisters Habitat for Humanity, which is where the name of the event is derived since the local Habitat for Humanity Thrift Store and ReStore are well-known for "recycling" and selling usable items to fund future Habitat homes and other projects.

Sisters High School's soccer teams, including girls Coach Audrey Tehan, provided volunteer support for the event and will receive a portion of the proceeds for their support.

No official results were tallied for the run, although local teenagers finished at or near the top of both distances. Brandon Pollard and Izaak Kanzig came through first and second in the 5-kilometer run, and Devon Calvin finished near the lead at the 8-kilometer distance.

"This event is great for locals, but it also attracts visitors to Sisters," said Rickards. "We had people from as far away as Virginia."