My Story

I grew up in Stewartville, attended each of the schools here, and now teach 6th grade here. I was introduced to distance running in the Spring of my 9th grade year by my PE/Health teacher. Little did he know that he changed my life that day! I knew when I left his class that I would be a runner for the rest of my life! That is the power that we all have in the lives of children/youth. I have run in hundreds of races, including 39 marathons and 7 ultramarathons (longer than 26.2 miles). Now it is my turn to try to motivate others! The idea for Mr. Parry's Endurance Challenge came to me soon after I started teaching in Stewartville and, before I knew it, became a reality with the first event happening last spring. I ran/walked 96 miles during those 24 hours...this year, I ran and walked 100.68 miles over 24 hours from April 29-30.  I have heard many stories about how individuals made big changes in their lives because of last year's challenge. Those stories motivate and inspire me!

2010 Photos.  100.68 miles in 24 hours

2009 Photos.  96 miles in 24 hours.