Thomas Zimmer helps dedicate new course
October 18, 2009 | Women's Cross Country
Oct. 3, 2009
MADISON, Wis. - The University of Wisconsin men's and women's cross country teams, together with athletic department administrators, welcomed Thomas Zimmer for a ribbon-cutting ceremony at the new Thomas Zimmer Cross Country Course prior to the inaugural Wisconsin adidas Invitational on Saturday.
Zimmer, a longtime Badgers supporter and former collegiate runner at UW-River Falls, made the leadership gift toward the construction of the course, which carries the Zimmer name in recognition of his generosity.
Video: Badgers christen new course in style
"This is a special day," said Zimmer, acknowledging the fact that it has been decades since the Badgers competed on a dedicated cross country course. "It was a long time coming and I'm thrilled to have played a role in making this course a reality."
Chuck LaBahn, who was unable to participate in the dedication ceremony, also made a significant gift toward the project. LaBahn is a former UW swimmer and the recently retired CEO of Orion Corporation in Grafton, Wis.
"We're very grateful for and appreciative of Tom and Chuck's support," associate athletic director for development Marija Pientka said. "This course would not have been possible without their vision and generosity. It will have a huge impact on our cross country programs and, we hope, the entire running community across the state."
The course, located adjacent to University Ridge golf course on Madison's west side, offers challenging and exciting terrain for runners and elevated viewing areas for spectators.
UW's course features an exterior loop of approximately 2,500 meters and an interior loop of 1,000 meters. Both loops cover the area's rolling hills and valleys, while the outside loop also runs through a section of dense woods, which are aflame with color in the fall.
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Brian Mason
UW Athletic Communications
