The Den in Dike is coordinating a 5K in memory of Phil Kruger during the town celebration of Watermelon Days. All proceeds go to Dike-New Hartford Athletics. Phil Kruger was a 1996 graduate of Dike-New Hartford Schools. He was selected as the most dedicated runner three times in cross-country and was a member of the state qualifying team in 1993. In track, he established multiple records and was selected as MVP. Phil attended Luther College and ran cross-country and track for three years. In cross-country he was selected for the most improved runner and finished sixth for the Norse at the Iowa Conference and fifth at the NCAA Division III Central Regional.

He also anchored the medley relay that qualified for the drake relays.

Phil and his wife Jodi were tragically killed in a car accident on Christmas Eve 2001. This race is dedicated to Phil’s memory, his love for running, and the drive and determination he had to succeed in his life.

Date: August 8, 2015

Race Location: The Den

668 Main St. Dike, IA 50624

Registration: Begins at 7:00 a.m.

Race Time: 8:00 a.m.

Entry Fee: increases after July 24/day of registration.

(checks payable to Kruger Memorial Race)

*Registration includes t-shirt and race packet.

Divisions: Men and women 15 and under, 16-19, 20-29, 30-39, 40-49, 50 & over, and wheelchair.

Awards will be given to the overall top male and female times, and the top 3 male and female finishers in each bracket.

Refreshments will be provided after the race along with the awards ceremony and a raffle for all participating racers.

Kids fun races will be held following the awards and are free. Kids fun races include a dash, backwards run, potato sack race, wheel barrel and 3-legged race. Children of all ages are welcomed for fun and prizes!