Runners hit the runway in fly-in 5k

With a starting line gimmick worthy of the days of old, the first annual Fly-In 5k Run kicked off in exciting fashion as a new addition to the festivities held at the Sisters Airport July 4.

As 29 runners toed the line, a hot-rod driven by Keith Johnson revved its engine waiting for the signal to rifle down the runway. That moment came when Benny Benson flew overhead in a contest of air speed versus ground speed. The runners followed down the runway.

Josh Nordell of Sisters, pushing his two daughters in a stroller, held the lead for most of the race, but a stretch of loose dusty dirt in the final portion of the race bogged him down just enough for Donald Jay to slip by for the win in 19:55. Nordell crossed second in 20:20 and James Dunn finished ended up third in 21:29.

Rikki (Glick) Heath topped the women's field in 22:17.

Finishers earned a T-shirt along with a pancake breakfast, and many walked away with prizes donated by local businesses including Eurosports, Common Threads, Sisters Coffee, Sisters Bakery, Hop & Brew, Yo Bean, Martolli's, Latigo and Sisters Feed.

Race director Shawn Cummings considered the event a success and said he looks forward to a second annual race next year.

"I have never been in charge of a race before, but I learned a lot and I think people had a good time," he said.

Funds raised by the race will help support the flight science program at Sisters High School.