Prineville’s annual Dam Run race donates $3,000 for student athletes.

PRINEVILLE, Ore. (KTVZ) -- The Crook County Foundation has announced a $3,000 contribution to it's scholarship fund by the Dam Run. The Dam Run contribution is benefiting four Crook County High School seniors. Each student will receive a $750 scholarship award to support their pursuit of higher education. The scholarships are designated for student athletes who participated in cross country or track and field in Prineville, Ore.

The Dam Run, an annual race held each Super Bowl weekend, has been a Prineville institution for 44 years. Founded in 1982 by Fred Bushong, the event brings runners to the banks of the Crooked River. Its scenic course spans from Bowman Dam to the Crook County High School track, offering distances of 20 miles, 10 miles, 5 miles and a 5K.

The race began as a community running event and has grown into one of Central Oregon's enduring traditions. Proceeds from The Dam Run are directed to The Dam Run Scholarship through the Crook County Foundation for graduating seniors who competed in Crook County cross country or track and field.

Crook County Foundation Executive Director Gwen Carr expressed gratitude for the community's support. "These student athletes have given so much to this community. We are grateful to everyone who laces up their shoes each February and makes these scholarships possible," Carr said.

Greg Davey, race director for The Dam Run and a longtime Crook County cross country coach, has witnessed the positive effects of the event. "Running teaches you things that stay with you for life. The Dam Run is our way of making sure these athletes have every opportunity to see where it takes them," Davey said.

The four $750 scholarship awards will be distributed as part of the Crook County Foundation's 2026 scholarship cycle. This initiative aims to connect community generosity directly with local students planning to pursue higher education.

To learn more about The Dam Run or to register for next year's event, visit thedamrun.com. Further information regarding the Crook County Foundation's scholarship programs is available at crookcountyfoundation.org or by calling 541-362-1210.