The annual Great Columbia Crossing of 2017 is now in the history books. It is estimated that about 2,800 people walked or ran across the Astoria-Megler Bridge during the race. Racer participation was down slightly this year, as compared to 3,200 racers in 2015, likely due to extreme weather canceling the 2016 event.
This year, the weather was delightful. With dry, sunny weather, runners enjoyed the scenic view from atop the Astoria-Megler Bridge. It’s a view that is a rare treat as pedestrians are not allowed on the bridge at any other time.
The race began at the Lewis & Clark Dismal Nitch rest area on the Washington side of the Columbia River. Runners and walkers crossed the Astoria-Megler Bridge, ending just near the Maritime Memorial Park in Astoria.
At the finish line, spectators cheered people who conquered the 7-mile race. From small children being pushed in strollers by their parent to the eldest racer – a 91-year-old woman – all seemed to relish in the victory of a major accomplishment.
This year a group of co-workers from Columbia Memorial Hospital Health and Wellness Pavilion joined together in tribute to Trevor Harvey, a co-worker who passed away mid-summer. Together, they created Team Trevor.
Wearing Trevor’s favorite colors – red and black – with the team name, the group completed the run/walk and celebrated together at the finish line.
“Trevor, we will never forget how you made us feel,” said team member Porsche Brunzell in a social media post. “You’ll always be in our hearts. Thank you for making clinic fun, light hearted, and full of that gorgeous smile of yours. We miss you!”
People attend the Great Columbia Crossing for many reasons – to improve their health, check off a bucket list item, or compete against a previous time. But one local story stood out – Team Trevor.
Race day is already set for October 14, 2018. To learn more about the 2018 Great Columbia Crossing, click here.
