Dawn Beil, Phy. Ed. Teacher, Eastwood Elementary, West Fargo

"I think that this event is great because it promotes the sport of running for a lifetime, inspires kids to be part of a big community event and kids will feel successful for finishing a race."

Ann Dolence, The Leisure Connection, Motivational Speaking and Training Service

"This race is so exciting because every kid should believe that they can run, jump, and play and this day is a celebration of that. When kids show the freedom that comes with running, it is something they can love their whole lives."

Ralph Fiskness, Retired 6th Grade Teacher, Moorhead and Professional Wood Carver

"The Otter Tail Corp. Youth Run is a fabulous opportunity for boys and girls! Have fun, do a 1K, receive a T-shirt, win a medal, run in the FargoDome, be flashed over the jumbotron and more! How can you beat that for a Saturday afternoon? Last year, over 80 of our 6th grade students at Horizon Middle School of Moorhead ran and I witnessed this enjoyment. Hopefully the excitement I saw will follow each of these participants through Life, regardless of the activity. See you at the Dome!"

Rod Hardie, Retired School Teacher and Coach - Fargo Public Schools

"I feel the Youth Run is awesome because running is a great lifetime activity. Running is also a great way to make new friends.

Lee Hoedl, Freelance Author and Photographer; 2008 Committee Chair

"There once was a child inside each of us... many years ago... the one that endlessly leapt and sprinted and climbed from dawn to dusk. It is that same child inside that once told us, 'You can jump farther than the moon and run faster than the sun.' It's that same child inside that tells me each morning, 'Your best days and years of running are just ahead.' And it is that same child I see in the faces of my four young children. I joined this committee and I run and I encourage the youth of today for the very same reason: that inexhaustible and exuberant child within. Their success is our success."

Jenifer Jones, Pediatrician, Innovis Health

"Children's health is of utmost importance to me. Being involved in the Fargo Youth Run is just one small way that I can help the children of the Red River Valley become healthy and active -- I am always moved when I see the kids with nothing but pride on their faces as they cross the finish line and receive their medals! Small accomplishments like this as a child lead to a lifetime of good fitness memories."

Mark Knutson, Fargo Marathon Director

"I believe that we all have an obligation to see that the youth of our country are provided with every opportunity to stay active and healthy. In today's world, it has become too common to take the easy way out, and our children are paying the price. The Youth Run won't change the world, but if it can change one life for the better, then we've done our job!"

Amy Richardson, Director of Corporate Communications, Otter Tail Corporation

"This is a fantastic event for kids to take part in because they cross the same finish line as the other marathon runners and experience that deep thrill of accomplishment. More than 1700 kids ran last year and we hope to get even more involved this year!"

Holly Scott, Health Educator, Fargo Cass Public Health

"I love the Youth Run because it isn't a competitive event; everybody gets a medal at the finish line and everybody is a winner. I think it's a great way to help kids and young people see that exercise can be fun."