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 8th 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. |