20th Anniversary Fargo Marathon to celebrate Mark Knutson with ‘Mark’s Mile’
For most marathon runners, the last mile comes with a waterfall of emotions – disbelief, joy, pain. But for the 2024 Essentia Health Fargo Marathon, the most emotional mile for many runners will come much sooner.
In memory of the marathon’s long-time race director, Mark Knutson, a portion of the race will be designated as “Mark’s Mile.” Spectators, friends, and loved ones will be encouraged to line this portion of the race — as Knutson’s beloved ‘80s rock music blares — to cheer, celebrate, and remember the marathon’s biggest fan.
Knutson unexpectedly died in July in a bicycle accident in Detroit Lake, Minnesota.
The marathon’s 20th anniversary event, which will take place May 28 to June 1, 2024, will include a host of events to honor Knutson, who was instrumental in the creation of the race and supported it for 19 years. In addition to the marathon itself, the week-long event will include a half marathon, the Mark Knutson Friday Night 5K, Fargo Youth Run, Furgo Dog Run, 26.2 Mile Cyclothon, 15 Mile Cyclothon and the 27th Mile Post Race Party.
Registration is also available for virtual 5K, 10K, full- and half-marathons.
The event will be hosted by Ventures Endurance in addition to more than 100 events annually across the United States, attracting more than 500,000 participants with marathons, obstacle races, cycling, and themed runs.
Kaitlyn Greenleaf, USA TODAY NETWORK Ventures vice president, said Knutson built the marathon into the world-class event it is today, attracting runners from around the country.
“The event itself and its transformation over the past 19 years are part of Mark’s legacy, as well as all the relationships he built,” Greenleaf said. “Those were visible in interactions you saw with Mark and are still evident as soon as you start speaking about him and hear story after story about how he solved problems, led a community and changed lives.”
Participants and supporters can share that passion throughout the week-long event, with live bands and a DJ to keep the energy flowing.
In addition to the festivities, the event is also an opportunity to support a charity Knutson established and cherished — Shoes for Kids. Each participant at the time of registration will be encouraged to make a $5 donation to Shoes for Kids, which provides shoes to children so they can pursue the freedom, sense of accomplishment and the physical and mental benefits of running.
“As both a participant and organizer of race events, Mark knew how important shoes are to feel comfortable and confident,” Greenleaf said. “He wanted to share that within his community to encourage lifelong health and wellness.”
The 2024 Essentia Health Fargo Marathon course is certified by USA Track and Field and is an official Boston Marathon qualifier.
Just like in years prior, Greenleaf said the event promises to be a fun and unforgettable experience — just as Knutson was an unforgettable person.
“Mark was a passionate runner, community member, and leader,” Greenleaf said. “He embodied the Midwestern trait of kindness, was quick to share a laugh and always had a weather update for you. He put family and friends first — and for Mark, the marathon and its organizers, runners, and volunteers, were his extended family.”
More information is available at fargomarathon.com
This article originally appeared on St. Cloud Times: 20th Fargo Marathon to celebrate Mark Knutson with ‘Mark’s Mile’
