Introducing the McKenzie River Relays

There's Wacky Wednesday. There’s Throwback Thursday. And then there's the McKenzie River Relays.

Myra Dion racing an athlete from Mohawk, Kassandra Turner, in the Mid-distance Medley

The relays were a first time event for small schools that came off with only a few minor hitches, thanks to the capable volunteers and the patient coaches and runners. Everyone was eager to get the batons moving as we geared up for an afternoon of team races. There were the usual sprints but there were also middle distance medleys and long distance medleys. Some hurdles were added to the mix for those runners who aren’t baton twirlers.

Riley Davis waiting for his chance to go

A 2K steeplechase gave some extra obstacles for those who don’t mind wet feet and want a real challenge. That particular race drew in a group of ‘unattached’ runners who were making a name for themselves as team Cheeto. They were cheered on by a large group of spectators, some of whom were in costume for the grand finale, Anything But a Sprint Mixed Medley.

Team Cheeto taking over the water jump.

Will Meister leading the eventual winner of the steeplechase, Simon Hruby, through the water jump.

The Mixed Medley was where the fun really turned up. Forget the rain that had flooded the track. Ignore the chill in your bones from the cold. Here’s a chance to watch a cow run after Winnie the Pooh and Hello Kitty toe the line with a shark.

The kids got to dress up in costumes and race 100m legs doing anything but running (unless they ran backwards). It wasn't your textbook race but the kids had an absolute blast. One kid screamed at me “This is so much fun.” Another kid asked his coach, “Are all the meets this fun?” The coach said no.

It was a testament to the love kids have for getting away from the norm and just being kids. They may be high schoolers, but they are all still kids. It was great to see the sport that makes you sometimes doubt your sanity embrace the craziness and carnival it up.

The McKenzie Loggers relay team

Thanks to all the organizers, volunteers and good spirited coaches and athletes who made the first ever McKenzie River Relays such a success.