Othello celebrates under the sun
OTHELLO — Othello's Sun Faire lived up to its name as the temperature hit 98, 14 degrees above average.
The temperature didn't drop below 90 degrees until 8 p.m., according to AccuWeather. Event goers spent the hot day with light winds and low humidity enjoying the activities.
Turnout started slow in the early part of the day, but picked up as attendees enjoyed the food and vendors on hand, and the musical acts sponsored by a variety of local businesses. Music ran into the evening when the sky lit up with fireworks.
A highlight of the Sun Faire was the number of sporting events available. Spectators cheered on 18 teams in a 3-on-3 basketball tournament, street hockey participants, and numerous runners in the Sun Run.
The 3-on-3 basketball tournament is an annual event where Othello resident Emilio Mendoza, plays on a team with his brothers, Lupe Mendoza, Jaime Mendoza and Fidel Mendoza. Emilio Mendoza said he enjoys playing during the event and participates every year.
He said the skill levels of the teams are even, but the biggest challenge is keeping up with the younger guys.
Across from the basketball courts, a street hockey game was in session.
Jordan Nelson, 18, Othello, was on the team The Othello Outlaws. They won the tournament in a shoot-out. Nelson said he felt some pressure to make the last score to win.
"I had to close it out for my team," Nelson said.
Participants in the Sun Run raced against each other and the increasing heat in the morning.
Heather Fuger of Othello said she competed for her second year and is training for a future marathon.
One organizer was not concerned with the heat and said the wind made it feel cooler.
"It's a good day for a race," organizer Kim Churchman said.
The race was broken into age groups.
One of the competitors in the mile-long race for people 50 years and older was Al Wylder, 84. He comes from Oregon each year to visit friends and brings along his dog Clancy. Wylder said he manages to stay fit because he's been an athlete since junior high school.