The concept of the Nebraska's Toughest Mile race is simple: one mile and three hills! The middle of the race will take competitors up the infamous “Gut-Buster Hill” which is located just north of the Campus of a Thousand Oaks on Seventh Street. “Gut-Buster Hill” was and is still a great place to go sledding in the winter, but does prove to be quite the challenge when it is the second hill, and toughest one, to climb during the race.

“This race is for everyone from young to old, and from the serious runner to the casual walker,” noted Dr. Murray, the race coordinator. “We want to challenge all individuals, whether athletic or not, to do something which would stretch them out of their normal comfort zone.”

The race will begin at 10 a.m. Registration will commence at 9 a.m. on race day at the beginning of the race that is located in downtown Peru. The starting line is near the Peru Fire Station and the finish line is near the front of the T.J. Majors building on the main campus.

The entry fee is only $20 and all participants will receive a tee shirt at the finish. An awards ceremony will be conducted at the conclusion of the race.

An overall award will be given to the top male and female. First, second, and third place medals will be awarded in six age categories for both the men and women.

Ivan Marsh of Ashland, Neb. set the course record of 5:45 in 2005. Last year, that record was nearly broken by Travis Buel of Lincoln as he finished the mile in 5:46. The defending female champion is Lexi Benjamin of Hamburg, Iowa, who finished in 8:33 and 13th overall.

Athletic Director Steve Schneider noted, “This is a fun event that the College and Dr. Murray provide. This year it will be conducted on the same day as a football game, which is also our Hall of Fame induction. We hope people will come and run in the race and stay for the football game.”