MDRA Recognizes two individuals for their impact on the MN Running Community
Minneapolis, Minn. – The Minnesota Distance Running Association annually recognizes achievements for the Pat Lanin Distinguished Service Award and MDRA Volunteer of the Year.
Dennis Barker, Minnesota Coach and Author, is the 2020 recipient of the Pat Lanin Distinguished Service Award. The Minnesota Distance Running Association (MDRA) has presented this award annually since 1982 to recognize individuals who have made a significant contribution to the running community in Minnesota. Dennis is author of The River Road, coach of 24 U.S. National Champions & 73 top-3 finishers and is currently coach of the Nova Classical Academy Cross Country Team.
Molly McLain, MDRA Diversity and Inclusion Committee Chair and Promotions Committee Member, is the 2020 recipient of the MDRA Volunteer of the Year. Since 1984, MDRA has presented this award annually to recognize a volunteer or group for their commitment of time and energy to supporting the MDRA mission. Molly volunteers to help with social media, promotions and strategy, and was instrumental in the formation of MDRA’s Diversity Committee and the drafting of the Diversity Statement.
The award winners will be recognized at the MDRA Annual Meeting which is tentatively rescheduled for summer of 2021.
Pat Lanin is the founder of the MDRA and pioneer of the Minnesota running scene.
The Minnesota Distance Running Association is a membership supported group whose goal is to connect the Minnesota running community and support runners of all ages and abilities through education, programs, and advocacy. The group organizes a number of races and training programs during the year in the Minneapolis/St. Paul area.