by Jody Spear and Kelly Meyer –
MASON CITY – The Annual Newman Catholic sponsored “On the Road for Education” marathon started early Sunday morning.
Starting at Music Man Square, the full marathon, 26.2 miles, started at 8:00 am. The half marathon started at 9:00 and there were also a 10K Race, a 5K Race and a 5K Fun Walk.
Gary Schmit, Race Director, said, “We have 94 full marathon runners, and also 4 Corporate. There will be 68 half-marathon runners starting at 9:00. It is a Newman sponsored race and a Boston Marathon Qualifier.”
The race was led by the bicycle club North Iowa Spin. Members Andy Johnson of Mason City, Andy O’Brien of Mason City, Dan Murphy of Mason City, John Johnson of Mason City, Josh Lawrence of Mason City and Dave Delperdang of Clear Lake. Earl Hill of Britt was also there.
“We will ride with runners the whole race,” informed O’Brien, “because they’d do it for us.”
The Announcements and prayer was done by Schmit and the National Anthem was sung by Lindsay Schmidt.
“Lindsay has a couple students running in the marathon,” said Schmit.
At 8:00 sharp, the gun was shot and the runners were off. It was reported that runners were coming off of Thrush Avenue and on to B20, heading to Lime Creek at 9:14 am.
When the race started, Jill Boisjolie, who has a son, Alex, running in the full marathon, was putting her encouraging sign away and heading to her next destination. “It’s his first marathon. I have six different signs to use throughout the route, but I like this one the best,” she said with a smile and a little giggle. She was also wearing a personalized t-shirt showing how proud she is of her son.
All of the races will be ending at the Newman Catholic School parking lot later this afternoon.
Results will be posted as they are made available.
