Sat, April 22nd 2023, 12:49 PM
EDT
Image Courtesy: Hawkeye Sports
IOWA CITY, Iowa — Former University of Iowa consensus
All-America tight end Dallas Clark was recognized Saturday for his contribution
of $101,000 to the UI’s Stead Family Children’s Hospital during the open spring
practice at Kinnick Stadium.
Along with the
contribution to the Stead Family Children’s Hospital, Clark is making the same
monetary donation to the Peyton Manning Children’s Hospital in Indianapolis.
Clark raised the funding for these donations through his participation in the
Ironman Championship in Kona, Hawaii, last October.
Clark was able to compete in the Ironman Championship due to an
exemption from the Ironman Foundation Team. The Ironman Foundation contributes
to communities and organizations all around the world.
The Ironman competition consists of a 2.4-mile swim in the
Pacific Ocean, a 112-mile bike ride along the coast on the Queen Ka’ahumanu
Highway and through the lava fields to Hawi. The third and final stage of the
event is a 26.2-mile run. Clark completed the competition in 13 hours and 50
minutes.
“The entire process, from training and learning how to swim a
long distance in the ocean after being raised in Iowa was a challenge that I
embraced,” said Clark. “I absolutely loved the Ironman family and environment.
It was very inspiring to train and compete with the other athletes.
“The Ironman Foundation is a phenomenal organization,” said
Clark. “The idea of raising money for these two incredible hospitals played a
large part in my motivation and journey. I became stronger mentally and
physically through this preparation and competition, and I pray this money
helps a child become stronger through their journey.”