by Jessica R. Wheeler
Sherman County School Class of 2020 graduate Owen Christiansen has accepted an athletic scholarship in track and field with the Oregon Institute of Technology.
The Sherman Booster Club is holding a signing party to honor his accomplishments at 7 p.m. Thursday, May 28, at Moro City Park.
Owen has always been passionate about track and started participating in USATF at age 9, said his mother, Deanna Christiansen, a Sherman County School librarian and instructional assistant.
“Even after he was old enough to do track as a school sport, we still spent summers driving around the state and region for USATF track meets,” Deanna Christiansen said. “He sets goals for himself and trains to make them happen.”
Owen grew up in Sherman County and has also participated in football and basketball. Throughout high school, he has spent his Saturday mornings coaching Special Olympics. He hopes to continue working with the Special Olympics in college and plans to study to become an occupational therapist.
“He has been surrounded by an amazing community, and has built strong relationships with his coaches over the years,” she said. “Evan and I are blessed that he has the opportunity to continue to participate in this sport. We are beyond proud of the man he is becoming and honored to share in his journey.”