Walla Walla Superhero Run

WALLA WALLA-Tights and capes were out en masse at the Walla Walla Superhero run held Saturday Sept. 14.

"I think the people helping with traffic safety are all superheroes," said event organizer Nancy Walters. The event, hosted by the Walla Walla County Traffic Safety Coalition, supports WWCTSC programs that was well attended.

"At least 78 people pre-registered, about 100 by opening," said Walters. And even as the races were getting underway, more heroes emerged from phone booths and sport utility vehicles.

While most of the superheroes are general do-gooders, door prizes and refreshments got them motivated and kept them energetic throughout the early morning event. The weather was fair, with just enough of a breeze to keep a cape aloft.

College Place Police Chief Troy Tomaras announced the superhero costume winners.

"We've been secretly judging you looking at your costumes," Tomaras said and thanked Amy Harris from Walla Walla Police Department, who helped with costume judging.

It was decided that Captain Mom Laura was Most Likely to Have Real Powers because moms obviously do. Best Sidekick was awarded to the wee Wonderwoman Emma.

Wonder Woman Victoria was a unanimous vote for Best Costume. "She is all in, you guys," Tomaras said, "she's got props."

Jill George was Most Likely to be a Villain, "so look out for her on the trail," Tomoras warned the other runners jokingly.

The Team Participation Award went to the Sheriff's office. Walla Walla County Sheriff's Sergeant Ryan Allen, Deputy Ben Olson, Corporal Kevin Maas, Deputy Federico Diaz, and Chief Deputy Richard Schram not only ran the 5k in their uniforms, but also superhero regalia.

Schram was also voted Most Likely to be Mistaken for a Superhero. Tomaras called for a round of applause in their honor then Captain America, Superman, Batman, Deadpool and the Flash took off.

"Now if we could get the villain to run out in front of you, that could give you some motivation." Tomoras then recommended stretching. The 10k team kicked off the event with runners looping around Rooks Park and Bennington Lake.

5k walkers and runners began west of the registration area, ran east along creek, then cut off to Rooks Park parking area. Participants made their way through the lot to the path, then back to trail along the creek, finishing at a fantastic rainbow balloon arch.

The one mile course began at Tausick Way. Walkers headed east to first bridge, crossed and then returned to the finish line where they were greeted with snacks and refreshments.

Walla Walla County Traffic Safety Coalition works to implement county wide programs that promote safe driving through community efforts and partnerships.

The superheroes race to support other WWCTS programming as well.

"Proceeds from the Superhero Run go toward car seats, the bicycle program and impaired driving program," Walters said. The DUI victim memorial walkway, sign project and impact panels as well as the Every 15 Minutes program, Child Passenger Safety Team and Tipsy Taxi service all continue to enrich the community with help from heroes.

Learn more about WWCTS on their website: http://www.co.walla-walla.wa.us/government/health_department/traffic_safety.php