Describes lake as most beautiful scenery in first half of run across U.S.
Staff writer
In 1996, Yijoo Kwon, of South Korea, was diagnosed with diabetes. His doctor told him diet and exercise were his best hopes to maintain his health.
He started exercising by walking short distances, gradually increasing distance and pace. He ran his first marathon in 2000. He eventually graduated to 100-mile ultramarathons, and has completed eight so far.
Kwon passed through Marion County Friday during a run from Los Angeles to New York City — his longest run yet. The 64-year-old Kwon is running with the theme of “Keep Running Against Diabetes.” He will finish his journey July 9 at the United Nations headquarters in New York.
Kwon stopped at Marion County Park and Lake to rest Friday.
“This area is most beautiful area we passed through,” he said through an interpreter.
Kwon said he has enjoyed running in Kansas. Arizona and New Mexico were too dry and mountainous, he said. By comparison, Kansas is lush and level. The only problem running in Kansas presents is the wind, he said.
He planned to celebrate passing the midway point of his journey in Kansas City, he said.