April 20 memorial for fallen runner set along King County’s Sammamish River Trail

Family, friends and co-workers of Elizabeth "Liz" Duncan will gather April 20 for a memorial dedication ceremony along the Sammamish River Trail to honor the 26-year-old Seattle resident who was killed one year ago.

An excellent athlete and avid runner, Liz was killed while running on April 21, 2007, by a driver who lost control of her vehicle.

An inscribed bench and a pair of bronzed Brooks running shoes in Liz's size will be installed alongside the Sammamish River/Burke-Gilman Trail – one of Liz's favorite running routes. A ceremony to dedicate the memorial is set for 1 p.m. on Sunday, April 20, at the trail's intersection with 102nd Avenue Northeast in Bothell. The exact location rests on the east side of the 102nd Avenue Northeast bridge, where the Burke-Gilman Trail becomes the Sammamish River Trail.

The bench is being donated by Brooks Sports, the Bothell-based performance running gear company that employed Liz at the time of her death.

"We couldn't think of a better way to commemorate Liz's contribution to Brooks and the good spirit she instilled in many," said Jenni Lopez, Brooks' customer service manager and Liz's former boss. "For years to come this legacy bench will provide serenity for countless runners and walkers who use this trail."

Gifts that preserve open space, provide new amenities, or ensure ongoing support for a specific facility or program are tangible ways of making a difference now and in the future. Donations and bequests can be made directly to King County Parks, with all funds used only for parks purposes.

Donations are fully tax-deductible, although potential donors should consult their financial adviser or tax preparer. For more information on donations and bequests to King County Parks, please contact Pearson Cummings at 206-263-6230.

King County Parks - Your Big Backyard - offers more than 25,000 acres of parks and natural lands, including such regional treasures as Marymoor Park and Cougar Mountain Regional Wildland Park, 175 miles of regional trails, plus pools and a world-class aquatic center. By cultivating strong relationships with non-profit, corporate and community partners, King County Parks enhances park amenities while reducing costs. Learn more at http://www.metrokc.gov/parks/.

Related Information:

King County Parks - Your Big Backyard

Sammamish River Trail