School of Dentistry learners and faculty put their mental and physical endurance to the test at this year’s Grandma’s Marathon.
Held annually in Duluth, Grandma’s Marathon Weekend features a marathon, half marathon, 5K and kids’ races. Several dental students and members of the school community participated in the half or full marathon on June 21. We spoke to a few of them to learn more about the experience.
I ran the half marathon this year because my friends from my running group were going. I like to run as a way to meet new people and unwind after a long day. I also think it's important to have hobbies and ways to relieve stress while in school!
Dave DeJong, DDS ’26 Throughout dental school, running has been a valuable outlet for me. It connects me with nature and boosts my mental well-being. I viewed training as a meaningful opportunity to take a break from intense academic demands, get some fresh air, and decompress with my fellow running friends. Finishing Grandma's Marathon was an incredibly rewarding experience that reinforced my belief in the value of hard work paying off. After months of training, battling through injuries and mental blocks, crossing that finish line to the sound of cheering spectators was a feeling I’ll never forget. I am grateful for the challenge that pushed me both physically and mentally.
Carly Fritz, DDS ’27 I ran the half with some of my old college teammates for Concordia College- I ran track and cross country there. A lot of us have gone into the health professions and we don’t often get to see the whole crew much, so this was a great way to be able to connect with everyone again. I think it’s a great way to give yourself a break from school. I definitely should have trained more, but with how busy school is that can be very challenging. But to have times where you get out of the school of dentistry, get to see people who aren’t in dental school and getting out of the cities you get to get more back to ‘the real world’ outside of just teeth and oral health and that’s a great break from all the things we do at the school.
Connor Haugrud, DDS ’26 Running a marathon is one of the most physically demanding shows of self-discipline. Proving to yourself that you have what it takes to fight through the mental turmoil of continuous pain is worth it in and of itself. And to finally cross that finish line is simply a victorious wave flooding over your whole body, coursing through your veins. That is why I ran a marathon.
Connor Schaper, DDS ’27
This year, I completed Grandma's Half-Marathon. My ultimate goal is to cross the finish line every time I participate in a running or walking event. I view these events similarly to dental appointments. We embark on this journey alongside our students or patients, and each time, we start anew, building on what we have learned, seeking ways to improve, or simply figuring out what we can do better next time. I genuinely enjoy connecting with the students and celebrating the successes of everyone who crosses the finish line!
Lanette Wedell, MSDH, RF, clinical assistant professor of periodontology
