Outdoor writer wins California trip, donates to local high school star

Wednesday, February 16, 2005

Spokane, WA—Some guys have all the luck but not nearly enough time. At least that’s the way it looks after Bloomsday’s first-ever awarding of a trip for two to the Carlsbad 5000 in Southern California. Spokesman-Review outdoor writer Rich Landers won the trip in a drawing held among January online entrants of Bloomsday, but family obligations and impending jury duty made it impossible for him to attend. Landers donated the trip to Mt. Spokane High School runner Megan O’Reilly, whose cross-country season was derailed due to stress fractures.

 

“I’m really sorry I won’t be able to take the trip myself,” said Landers, “But I’m pleased to give it to someone who didn’t get a chance to show her talent at the end of cross country season, and who will really represent Spokane well at Carlsbad.”

 

O’Reilly will travel to the Carlsbad race with her mother, Marie Cole. Both will participate in the race, which is scheduled for April 3 in the seaside village of Carlsbad, about 20 miles north of San Diego.

 

The Carlsbad 5000, one of the best known road races in the United States, is also one of the fastest, with 14 world records set on the course during its 20-year history. Carlsbad is not just for the fleet of foot, though, as the event stages nine separate 5-K races, a Health & Fitness Expo, beer garden, and post-race party by the sea.

 

Bloomsday ’05 will be Sunday, May 1, 2005. The on-time entry fee is $10.00, one of the lowest fees in the nation for a major running event. Printed entry forms will be available beginning March 1 at locations throughout the Inland Northwest.

 

 

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