The Run for the Ridge will be a 5k cross-country race for ages 13 and older over field, prairie and wooded forest trails at Wapello County's beautiful Pioneer Ridge Nature Area. Located 6 miles south of Ottumwa, Iowa on Highway 63. Pioneer Ridge is the 737-acre centerpiece of the Wapello County Conservation Department and boasts a nature center, hay barn shelter house that seats over 100 people, native and restored prairies, and over 10 miles of open field and oak-hickory forest trails including a half mile handicapped-accessible, hard-surfaced trail around the nature center and ponds.

For youngsters under age 13, a FREE obstacle course fun run will be held. 3 and 4 year olds will have a Sprout Route. Runners ages 5-12 will compete in the Turkey Trot. All will be winners!!

The Run for the Ridge will be held during Ottumwa's Octoberfest celebration. The City of Ottumwa has several fun activities planned during the day and evening. At 10:00 a.m. the Octoberfest Parade will make it's way through downtown Ottumwa. There will be carnival in the Market Street parking lot during the entire Octoberfest celebration. There will be live music, great food and a beer garden on Friday and Saturday night.

Pre-registration fee is $12.00. Late registration fee is $15.00. Early registrations will be accepted until 4:30 p.m. on September 29, 2000. Race day registration begins at 7:00 a.m.

Age Categories:
19 and under
20 to 29
30 to 39
40 to 49
50 and above

Runners can pre-register by calling (641)682-3091 or email us