A South High alumnus has caught the public eye for raising money for charity in a creative fashion. James Botnen,  who graduated from South in 2005, raised funds for the Shoes for Kids charity by running a 100-mile route that stops at each Fargo area school. He did this in honor of his late friend Mark Knutson, who was a fellow runner, a member of the Fargo Marathon Committee, and founder of the Shoes for Kids charity. He began the run on Thursday, October 3rd, and finished it about 30 hours later at Fargo South High School after having raised $30,000. Here’s what he had to say about the run —

What inspired you to take on such a huge challenge?

“I thought someday it would be ‘fun’ to run more than a marathon distance. Plus, I’m always up for a personal challenge! I told a friend last year that it would be cool to run to each school… once I started mapping it out, I realized it was much further [than 50-60 miles.] Once I say something, though, I stick to my word … the training began immediately!”

Was there a specific experience that made you realize how important providing shoes to kids in need really is?

“I wouldn’t say there is one specific moment … I will say though, I have always enjoyed seeing the expression on my son’s face when he tries on new shoes! So, I never want kids to not be able to have that experience,”

What do you hope the Fargo-Moorhead community takes away from your efforts?

“I told everyone that I am doing this whether we raise $100 or even less … the goal was to not only raise funds … but to also bring more awareness to the schools and community as a whole. Well we, by far, accomplished both! Never underestimate what you can do … There is a true power in our community! … Kids are the next generation and our future!”

What were you thinking when you crossed the finish line?

“It hit me what we just accomplished as my son, Parker, grabbed my hand and we ran a lap at the Fargo South track before crossing the finish line. It came together perfectly and I couldn’t have asked for anything better.”

If Mark Knutson were here today, what do you think he’d say about your efforts?

“I think he would have said, ‘are you crazy, James?!?!’ but with a smile and in the most supportive way, too. As I know he would have helped in any way he could have, and that was what he was all about … A very good friend of Mark’s mentioned ‘Mark would have been right here beside us, running and supporting us!’ I didn’t know what to say in the moment, but the next day I sent him the message: ‘he IS doing this with ALL of us. This is ALL him!”