ST. GEORGE — Once all competitors have crossed the finish line of the 47th edition of the St. George Marathon, which will be run Saturday morning, three influential people will be inducted into the Road of Fame.
Riley Cook, Jane Durfey and Lynn Bateman represent participants from all walks of life — runners, city employees and volunteers — and have made many significant contributions to one of the best marathons in the western United States, according to a news release from the city of St. George.
Road of Fame inductees are chosen based on the significance they bring to the St. George Marathon. Cook, Durfey and Batemen were to be recognized for their valuable contributions to the marathon at the Legacy Banquet at 5 p.m. Saturday at the Dixie Convention Center.
“The Road of Fame began in 2013 and recognitions are awarded on odd-numbered years,” said Race Director Michelle Graves, who is the assistant Parks and Community Services director for the city of St. George. “The marathon holds a special place in our City’s heart and it is significant to recognize the individuals who contribute to its success and history.”
Biographies of this year’s inductees follow.
Riley Cook
The St. George Marathon has been a long-standing family tradition for Cook of South Weber. Inspired by his mom’s 27 St. George Marathon finishes, he began building his own path in the family legacy when he was a teenager.
Since his first run in 2009, he has competed in the marathon eight times, finishing first in 2016. Since then, Cook has secured three of the top 30 fastest times achieved in the history of the race and holds the record for the fastest time in the Masters division (age 40-plus). He is supported by his wife Amy — also an accomplished long-distance runner — and their four daughters, the news release said.
Jane Durfey
Durfey of Highland, Utah, competed in track and field events at Utah State University, where she held the school record in the 400 hurdles for eight years and qualified for the U.S. Olympic Tryouts in 2000. In 2006, now with a family of her own, Jane took on the St. George Marathon for the first time. Over the years, she has secured five top-10 finishes and excelled in the Masters division where she has reached the podium several times.
The St. George Marathon has a deep meaning to Jane, who believes that the marathon goes beyond just being a race. She believes that it focuses on the entire journey, which includes rigorous training and the many connections fostered in the process, th enews release said.
Lynn Bateman
The Road of Fame recognizes one exceptional volunteer among its honorees. This year’s honoree is Lynn Bateman, who since 2006 has been involved in radio communications for the race. He oversees the coordination of 14 different aid stations, shuttle buses and communication across aid and medical stations.
At an event this large, safety is of the utmost importance. Radio operators like Bateman have been instrumental in saving lives.
If you are interested in joining the dedicated team of volunteers, please consider signing up on our website.