Mark Thorn,
New Chileda Classic Race Director
February 2003

2003 notes the passing of the leadership baton as Mark Thorn assumes the role of race director for the La Crosse Chileda Classic. Though this is Mark’s first year as head of the Classic, he is no stranger to the event. He joined the La Crosse Chileda Classic steering committee in 1996, but was familiar with the event long before that, having participated as a runner in the event eight times. In fact, when he laced up his tennis shoes for the 1989 La Crosse Chileda Classic, it was the first 5K road race in which he ever competed.

Physical fitness has been an important part of Mark's life since his childhood. He has played hockey since he was seven years old and is the starting goalie for his team, which is part of the Onalaska, Wis. Tornado Adult Hockey League. He has managed this recreational league for eight years.

In the past seven years, competition has become Mark’s passion. He participates in about 10 organized events running, biking and triathlon each year, and is a two-time participant in the six-day, 500-mile Twin Cities-Wisconsin-Chicago Aids Ride. In 2002, Mark completed two half marathons and one half Ironman triathlon. This year, Mark hopes to finish a full marathon.

When he's not competing in sports or managing the details associated with the La Crosse Chileda Classic, Mark is a sales representative for Forrest Pharmaceuticals. He enjoys spending time with his wife Ellen and their three daughters, Elizabeth, Kathleen and Hannah. He is also an avid hunter; he bagged one of the 25 largest non-typical whitetail deer ever taken in Wisconsin.