Geode Challenge Races enjoyed by all

It rained Saturday night and there was some concern about having slippery places on the trails. Fortunately, the trails were dry and safe. The weather was beautiful. It warmed up a bit later in the morning but the humidity at 37% was the major foe to the runners. Many runners thanked Friends of Geode and all the volunteers for painting the leaves with beautiful colors and placing them along the trails as they ran the course. Another runner described the course as great because it had straight stretches where the runners could stretch out and run as well as challenging hills and dales to navigate.

The Friends of Geode owe a huge thank you to Kathi and Don Myers of Ft Madison. They coordinated a great race. The race was also a marvelous fundraiser for the restoration of the concession stand and other projects the Friends do for Geode Park, Lake and Campground. They worked tirelessly to mark the course, keep track of times and make sure everything was perfect for the runners.

John Fullenkamp gave a brief update on the progress of the concession stand work. The Friends hope that the opening of the stand will occur in 2026. He also called attention to the fact that the race would not be possible without the sponsorship of the Danville Lions. Their faithful and continued support is welcome. Thank you, Lions!

Three races are included in the Challenge. There were 27 signed up for the 5K, 28 for the 12K and 9 for the 25K. There was one dog in 5K and another in the 12K.

The race begins hours before Saturday’s start time of 9 a.m. Kathi and her crew put out all the flags marking the course. Runners are asked to be sure and check in if they decide not to complete the race. It is important that every runner is accounted for. Safety is of great importance. The race isn’t over for Kathi after the last runner crosses the finish line. She works tirelessly until she gets the times correct for every runner so they can be published.

First place for each race is as follows:

5K — 1st place male: Orion St. Clair #26 Orion is the new record holder in the 5K Male

1st place female: Cassa Knustrom #17 She crossed the finish line with her sons

Cade and Colt. Cade and Colt happily accepted the geode

Given to each participant at the finish line.

Top Dog: Abby Seitz #24 and Libby

12k — 1st place male: Zayden Laurence #126

1st place female: Amber Sheeley #108

Top Dog: Travis Schell #113 and Caspian

25k 1st place male: Ryan May #156

1st place female: Malaya Skidmore #159

Official times will be announced by Kathi on the Geode Challenge Race Group Facebook page. Winners receive a handmade plaque noting the event made of native

Geode Park wood and embellished with a split geode. John Fullenkamp announced the winters and Mark Weseley, President of the Friends of Geode, presented the plaques.

Friends of Geode look forward to another great race in 2026.