Newport Autumn Bloom is a success

NEWPORT — Newport Hospital and Health Services annual Autumn Bloom run was a complete success.

Saturday morning, runners from all over the Northwest welcomed the sunny fall morning and competed in the 16th annual Newport Autumn Bloom 5K/10K Run. The race welcomed back runners from the Bloomsday Road Runners Club, Flying Irish, as well as several other local groups including the Newport High school and middle school cross country teams.

The overall male 10K winners were Steve Kirschke (first, 00:38'41), Asher Ali (second, 00:44'03), and Stephen Storlie (third, 00:44'11). The overall female 10K winners were Lindsay Lange (first, 00:45'27), Alyanna Arzner (second, 00:51'29) and Joanne Jordan (third, 00:54'34).

The overall male 5K winners were Heath Robertson (first, 00:19'56), Johnathan Brooks (second, 00:20'07) and Steven Crane (third, 00:21'31). The overall female 5K winners were Sophia Larson (first, 00:21'06), Anna Jones (second, 00:24'50) and Amy Rose (third, 00:27'29).

In 2018, the Autumn Bloom race committee created a special annual award in honor of Danny Woelk, a beloved community member and loyal race supporter. The Spirit of Autumn Bloom award recognizes race loyalty, superior attitude, and competitive inspiration for all ages. Lori Stratton and Jenny Smith presented the 2023 award to George and Cathy Wallis of Newport, who received the special plaque for their commitment to the Autumn Bloom run, as well as remaining active, competitive, and inspirational to people of all ages. Their names will also be engraved on a perpetual plaque displayed at Newport Hospital and Health Services.

Officers from the Newport Police Department, Pend Oreille County Sheriff's Office, and Fire District 4 provided route security for the 100-plus participants as they raced through downtown Newport. Runners were encouraged along the route by veteran bike marshals (Glennis Stott and Sophia Stott) and more than 50 community volunteers including groups from House of the Lord Christian Academy, Pend Oreille County Library District, Newport High School, and hospital district employees. Levi Litowitz, Carson Hanni and Jason Stratton of 91.5 KUBS FM radio, provided emcee services for the event. Lois Robertson and Jenny Cooper provided photography services.

This year's Newport Autumn Bloom benefits hospital district equipment needs and NHHS Foundation programs, including the Healthy Kids Snack Bag program and Reach Out and Read. Race times were verified by Negative Split Timing Services.

Information: newporthospitalandhealth.org