PORT HADLOCK — A record number of runners, 200, participated in the 2012 Deer Run at Naval Magazine Indian Island last weekend in the second annual summer community fun run.
“We had a terrific turnout this year,” said Cmdr. Gary Martin, commanding officer of Indian Island.
“All the runners had a great energy and a positive spirit,” he said.
For the second consecutive year, participants could choose to run on a 5-kilometer (3.10 miles) terrain course through forested area on the southern end of Indian Island.
A shorter 1.2-mile course on paved roads was also available.
Jefferson County Sheriff Tony Hernandez kicked off Deer Run again this year. He also ran the 5-kilometer terrain course.
“The course was great, and it feels good to be one with nature,” Hernandez said.
“This is a wonderful event where the Navy reaches out to the community, invites the public onto the base and brings everyone together for a fun outdoors event.”
Hernandez also assisted in presenting award medals to the winners of each men’s and women’s age divisions.
Poulsbo firefighter Brian Ramey was the first overall finisher for the 1.2-mile course with a time of 7 minutes, 32 seconds.
John Christian was the first overall finisher for the 5-kilometer terrain course with a time of 17 minutes, 11 seconds.
Cheering section
Some participants had their very own cheer squads. Texas residents Kaila and Matthew Prochaska wrapped up their family reunion road trip by running the 5-kilometer course.
It was their first time visiting Washington state. Their father, Mike, said that their family has been visiting relatives along the West Coast.
Since Kaila is on a cross country team at school, and Matthew plays football and lacrosse, they did their best to keep active while on the road.
“We tried to find a run to do every weekend while we are on vacation,” said Mike Prochaska.
“We did one in Denver, one in Oakland, and now this one here. It’s been fun.”
Deer Run sponsors Subway of Port Townsend and Costco in Silverdale provided post-run refreshments for participants.
“We greatly appreciate the generosity of our sponsors and the energizing spirit that all the participants brought to Deer Run,” said Martin.
“We love being able to open up the base once in a while to spend a day with our community.”