WSU's Levora defends Jacey's Race title

SANDPOINT — It was a great race and an exceptionally moving event, as hundreds of runners turned out for Jacey’s Race on Sunday, as the fun run benefited four sick children and their families and both BGH pediatrics and Community Cancer Services this year.

Former Sandpoint standout and current Washington State University cross country and distance runner Sam Levora defended his title in the 5K race that starts and ends at Sandpoint High School.

Levora, who clocked a 16:45 to win the fundraising race in 2014, showed that competing in the Pac 12, the best cross country conference in the nation, has sharpened his skills. Levora clocked a 15:39, beating former Bulldog teammates Matt Burgstahler (second at 16:17) and Jacob Graham (third at 16:46).

Amber Yassine, of Bonners Ferry, was the top female finisher, clocking a 20:41 to finish 13th overall, while Niah Brass, just a freshman at SHS, finished third among the women.

Sandpoint’s Trey Clark, 11, averaged under seven minute miles to place 22nd, as runners young and old enjoyed the annual community race, which draws more than 300 runners/walkers annually.

For results, for more information, or to make a donation, visit “www.jaceys-race.com.”

Top 20 finishers

1 — Sam Levora, Sandpoint, 15:39.

2 — Matt Burgstahler, Sandpoint, 16:17.

3 — Jacob Graham, Sagle, 16:46.

4 — Andy McGinniss, Sandpoint, 17:59.

5 — Clay Rasmussen, Sandpoint, 18:10.

6 — Kris Braunberger, Spokane, 18:50.

7 — Russell Keith, Gold Canyon, Az, 19:34.

8 — Nathan Schwartz, Sandpoint, 19:55.

9 — Jimmy Soderberg, Sagle, 20:16.

10 — Peter Soderberg, Sagle, 20:19.

11 — Daniel Radford, Sandpoint, 20:22.

13 — Amber Yassine, Bonners Ferry, 20:42.

14 — Erik Jeffres, Sandpoint, 20:42.

15 — Jack Rinck, Sandpoint, 20:49.

16 — Ryan Schwartz, Sandpoint, 20:54.

17 — Steve Blair, Salt Lake City, 21:01.

18 — Grant Giles, Cranbrook, B.C., 21:10.

19 — Darwin Hurst, Ponderay, 21:10.

20 — Riley McGinnis, Sandpoint, 21:23.