In 1999, a Mason City Newman School student was looking for a project that could benefit his community and his school, as well as earn him the rank of Eagle Scout. It was that year that he organized an event for local runners. This event, which he named, On The Road For Education, started as a 5 and 10 K race as well as a Relay Marathon. With the help of his parents and a few dedicated friends and their parents, the event was held on a crisp autumn day near the school grounds. With just 88 participants that year, the race was considered a great success, an Eagle Scout award was given and a new tradition in Mason City was created.

Now in its 12th year, the race, with a reputation for its beautiful course that trails throughout the nature center, along the Winnebago River and beside the cornfields of North Iowa, has grown to include the 5 and
10 K and both full and half marathons. Certified by the United States Track and Field in 2002, this race is has been attracting runners hoping to get that last chance to qualify for the Boston Marathon.