March 18, 2024

Registration open for Krumm trail race

One of the longest ongoing trail races in Jasper County is turning 10 and registration is open for this year’s run.

The 10th annual “Off the Beaten Path 6K Trail Race and 3K Fun Run” will begin at 9 a.m. on Sept. 20 at the Jacob Krumm Nature Preserve in eastern Jasper County. There are seven different categories designed for runners or walkers of all ages.

It costs $20 to register if postmarked before Sept. 5, which will also guarantee participants a T-shirt. People who sign-up after that date, must pay $25 and the T-shirt is not guaranteed.

Off the Beaten Path is sponsored by the Jasper County Conservation Office and the Jasper County Conservation Connection, which is a nonprofit group dedicated to promoting and supporting the county’s park system.

“This event not only brings people from all over Iowa, and beyond, to Jacob Krumm Nature Preserve, but also raises funds to help improve our parks and expand our environmental education program,” said Keri Van Zante, county conservation director.

Last year’s event drew 125 runners, and Van Zante said events like Off the Beaten Path and others have helped to build a shelter house, two family-sized cook grills, an observation tower and a playground at various county parks.

“Our group is continuing with fundraising for multiple small projects, but we also have our sights set on building a new nature center in Newton,” Van Zante said.

Off the Beaten Path is one of the most consistent events for the conservation office and JCCC.

“It has stayed fairly stable over the years, though in my experience, race numbers are usually driven by weather, so we see lots of ‘week of’ registrations coming in after the weather has been predicted for the day,” Van Zante said.

Van Zante also believes trail races, like Off the Beaten Path, gives participants a unique experience.

“A trail race in itself is a unique experience compared to a road race. At Jacob Krumm Nature Preserve, mowed paths lead runners up hills, through timber, down into valleys and around several bodies of water. Wildlife and prairie surround participants and creates a definite sense of serenity,” Van Zante said.

Van Zante, an avid runner herself, is hoping for a strong turnout and plans on being there to ensure that things go smoothly.

“I wish I could participate,” she said. “Jacob Krumm Nature Preserve  is one of my very favorite places in Jasper County, but I am so busy on race day — never a chance for me to run. So for now, I will live vicariously through all of my friends who come out to support conservation and participate in the race.”

Those interested in participating may register online at www.active.com or contacting the conservation office at (641) 792-9780.

Contact Senior Staff Writer Ty Rushing at (641) 792-3121 ext. 6532 or at trushing@newtondailynews.com.