Plainfield North’s men’s cross country team turned Wednesday’s practice into a fundraising event.

The runners participated in the team’s second annual Run-A-Thon to raise money for team events and the American Cancer Society. Coach Scott Thoms said the 29 team members who participated likely doubled the $1,000 they raised last year. The money will be split between the team and the cancer research organization.

“I want them to learn that sometimes you’ve got to help and give back,” Thoms said after the hour-long event at the Plainfield North track.

Most boys, stretching and guzzling water after the work out, ran at least seven miles on the overcast afternoon. The team members sought out sponsors to donate a sum of money for each lap they ran  within the hour.

Junior Dan Wooldridge said he got in 37 laps – a little more than nine miles – and he wished the event lasted longer so he could’ve raised more money.

“It’s important for the team,” Wooldridge said. “This is going to carry us through the year because we do a lot of fun stuff, like we did a canoe trip this year and went to Chicago to run.”

Senior Jonathan Price said he hit up teachers, his family and even some friends to raise what he estimated was about $100.

The team’s next meet is 4:30 p.m. Friday at the FFA Farm on 28th Road. For the complete season schedule, visit www.athletics2000.com/PlainfieldNorth.

mmanchir@tribune.com

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