In memory of Marc Witkes, long-time Durango resident and distance runner who became a figurehead for the sport locally, Steamworks Brewing Co. and Star Liquors have donated $2,643 to the Marc Witkes Memorial Scholarship at Fort Lewis College . Funds were raised through activities associated with the Animas Valley Half Marathon, held June 20, 2009.

The annual half marathon is a partnership of Steamworks Brewing Co., Durango Motorless Transit and the Durango Sports Club. The 2009 event sold out, drawing a record 300 runners, which allowed for a $2,300 donation to the college. In conjunction, Star Liquors highlighted Steamworks’ brews as “Beer of the Month” for June, donating $0.50 of each 6-pack, 12-pack or 22 oz. bomber bottle of Steamworks beer sold – or $343 total –to the Witkes Scholarship.

The Marc Witkes Memorial Scholarship is presented annually to a Four Corners area cross country runner attending Fort Lewis College . Current scholarship recipient Logan Ott (Mancos) ran in the 2009 half marathon and placed first overall. 

“Logan Ott is a stellar example of everyone’s hope for the Marc Witkes Memorial Scholarship,” said Kris Oyler, Steamworks co-founder. “He is an outstanding athlete and ambassador for the sport. I know Marc would have been proud.”

Witkes, an avid runner and former president of Durango Motorless Transit, passed away Dec. 10, 2006, less than 300 yards from the finish line at the Tucson Marathon.

“We were very pleased to partner with Steamworks to help financially support a Fort Lewis student runner,” said Stan Crapo, owner, Star Liquors. “And we want to thank the community. It’s because of the community support that this has been a win-win endeavor.”