Thursday, April 26, 2012

Row Ride Run turnout best in six years


By Kelsey Hulbert
Cardinal Staff

Saint Mary’s University’s annual Row Ride Run Triathlon to benefit Serving Others United in Love (SOUL) retreats will take place April 28 at 9 a.m. at Lake Lodge in Winona.

The event consists of canoeing or kayaking 2.5 miles around Lake Winona, biking 14 miles from Lake Winona to SMU and running 3.1 miles through the bluffs surrounding SMU. Over 100 people will participate in the event, which is the best turnout in six years according to Director of Campus Ministry Chris McClead.

The idea for the triathlon originated from a student initiative and provides service opportunities for SMU students in diverse communities around the world.

McClead said the triathlon is unique because it uses the athletic talent of students to teach others about social injustice, and it is something not typically associated with a service trip.

“SOUL trips extend the Lasallian Catholic tradition from the classroom into the hearts and minds of students, which is then brought to vulnerable communities,” McClead said.  

The race this year will be hectic, McClead added, and he is excited to see everyone support the race all in the name of SMU.

For McClead, the most exciting part of the race is seeing one hundred canoes lined up in Lake Winona, hearing someone say “Go!” and seeing all of the chaos unfold.

Registration is $30 per individual or $60 per team. Awards will be given to the top finishing team and the three fastest individuals.

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