Central Oregon and Northwest runners are ready to rumble

Published 5:00 am Tuesday, April 10, 2007

SISTERS – Distance runners from all around Oregon and nearby states are getting ready to rumble and kick up some desert dust at the Peterson Ridge Rumble in the Three Sisters Wilderness.

The event takes place this Sunday and consists of races of 60 kilometers (37.2 miles) and 30K (18.6 miles). The 60K will begin at 8 a.m., with a 7 a.m. early start for those who might need more time, and the 30K begins at 9 a.m. Both races start at Sisters Middle School, half a mile west of Sisters on State Highway 242 (McKenzie Highway) toward the McKenzie Pass.

Organizers describe the race as low-key and for those with a sense of fun and adventure.

Both races start with a climb and end with a gradual downhill. The first 20K of the longer race includes a gentle uphill section, followed by a rolling section with some steep climbs, then a gentle downhill for the last third of the race.

The 30K begins with a gentle uphill section, and about halfway through, the course gradually descends. The run features views of the Central Oregon Cascades.

Six full aid stations will be spread out over the 60K course, while four aid stations will be available on the 30K course. Runners can leave drop bags at the start line on race morning for aid stations three and six on the 60K course.

Dogs are allowed to run along in the 30K race, but not in the longer event.

The 60K race is part of the Oregon Trail Ultra Series, and both races are part of the Trail Runner Trophy Series and the Central Oregon Dirt Series.

Awards will be presented to the top three men and top three women overall, and to the top three Masters age 40 and over men and women. There will also be a prize for the first-place dog in the 30K. A barbecue after the races will begin at about 11:30 a.m. Showers will be available at Sisters Middle School; participants are asked to bring their own towel.

Entry fee is $50 for the 60K, and $35 for the 30K. There will be no race-day registration.

Entry forms are available online at www.footzone-bend.com/rumble, also at local stores, including FootZone and Pandoras Backpack in Bend and at Eurosports in Sisters.

Saturday is the last day to register, but the event is limited to a total of 250 participants. Participants can pick up their race packets at the FootZone in downtown Bend on Saturday between 2 and 6 p.m. or on race day starting at 6 a.m.

Ridge running

What: Peterson Ridge Rumble 30K and 60K.

Where: McKenzie Highway, Sisters.

When: Sunday, April 15.

Cost: 60K is $50; 30K is $35.

Contact: Sean Meissner at 549-1298.

Race Web site: www.foot zonebend.com/rumble.