About Us

MISSION

Striving to empower our local communities to build a healthier world.

Run the Dam began as the Over the Dam Run in 1976, when a group of local running enthusiasts decided that running in the August heat at 4:00 p.m. sounded like a great challenge. Over the next four decades, the race would come and go, eventually becoming a spring event.

In 2014, the race officially became Run the Dam, and in 2016, it returned to the fall to once again showcase the autumn beauty of the Coulee. That same year, Run the Dam became a nonprofit organization with a mission that extends beyond race day—encouraging healthy, active lifestyles while giving back to the communities we call home.

Run the Dam continues to look for new ways to encourage outdoor recreation, support our community, and create experiences that bring people together.

Our board is made up of five dedicated women who proudly volunteer their time, energy, and ideas to keep Run the Dam moving forward.

Today, Run the Dam offers a 5K, 10K, and Half Marathon in the Coulee, but we aren't done dreaming. One of our long-term goals is a point-to-point full marathon traveling alongside Banks Lake and the stunning Coulee walls from Coulee City to Electric City.

PROJECTS

More than a race

Run the Dam is about more than the miles we run each September. It’s about creating a healthier, stronger community long after the finish line comes down.

Through the incredible support of our runners, sponsors, donors, and community, Run the Dam helped coordinate and raise funds for the development of Ray Halsey Memorial Park in Electric City. Run the Dam also donated the adult outdoor fitness equipment at the park, creating another opportunity for people of all ages to get outside, move, and stay active.

Projects like this are only possible because of the generosity of those who support Run the Dam. As a nonprofit, the dollars donated and invested in our event allow us to give back and help create lasting improvements within the communities we call home.

When you support Run the Dam, you’re supporting more than a race. You’re helping us build a healthier, more active community—one project at a time.

Involvement

Run the Dam is also committed to supporting other local running events and helping new race directors get their start.

Race Director Leadership: Run the Dam has assisted young and first-time race directors with registration, awards, swag, financial administration, and mentorship, providing the support they need to successfully organize their own events.

Past events have included:

Miles for Migraine: A local high school senior directed a 5K cross-country race, with proceeds benefiting a nonprofit supporting athletes who suffer from migraine.

Care & Share Food Bank: A local college freshman organized her first 5K event at North Dam Park, with proceeds benefiting the local food bank.

It is bigger than just ourselves