By Melissa Wagoner
Derek Zinser doesn’t care much for running. When he tells people he’s not a runner, it makes them laugh.
“I don’t like to run unless I am getting chased by a bear or some other large animal with teeth,” Zinser said.
He does like planning events, especially fun runs. “I make my 5K events something that anyone can do. They are not timed events. Participants can walk, jog or run. I want these events to be fun and unique.”
A Silverton High School alumnus, Zinser is planning Oregon’s first Pajama Rama 5K.
“When I think of Silverton, I think of a beautiful, quiet, sleepy town. This is where pajamas come in. It is a perfect idea for this wonderful town,” he said.
The race is Saturday, June 27, 6 p.m. at Silverton High. Participants will receive neon bracelets and necklaces to wear over their pajamas.
The race starts and finishes at the high school with after parties taking place at Mac’s Place, for those 21 and older, and Silver Creek Lanes, for those 20 and younger. All participants will receive a free game of bowling as well as post-race snacks and the possibility of winning one of 40 donated prizes.
Zinser hopes the race proceeds will be enough to provide two scholarships to high school seniors or provide for a high school program in need, as well as providing a year’s worth of landscape care for the Silverton Senior Center.
Zinser hopes for 250 to 500 participants for this year’s race.
“The Pajama Rama 5K is going to be a blast and will have something for all ages. It is like no other 5K event in Oregon,” Zinser said.
The cost for ages 5 and under is free; 6-14 $15; 15 and up $30. To register, call 503-593-6276 or visit www.pajamarama5k.com
