CHAPMANVILLE, W.Va. — A lot of folks will ring in the New Year in a variety of ways, but Brian Dingess of Chapmanville will literally run into 2026. Dingess began his journey at 7 a.m. Wednesday with a plan to run 100 miles within 24 hours.
“The Lord put it on my husband’s heart to run 100 miles at the Chapmanville track in 24 hours,” said wife Christina Dingess. “We’ve had this in the works for several weeks now and today is the day, we wanted to do it on New Year’s Eve.”
Dingess didn’t make the decision to try this on a whim, he is an intense runner and competes consistently in various marathon style events.
“This is his sixth ‘Ultra Marathon’ or sixth race this year, but it’s not really a race because he’s not competing against anyone, this one is for the Lord,” she added.
The couple belong to the Morning Star Freewill Baptist Church located in Chapmanville only a short distance from the track. The event is to draw attention to the church and the Dingess’ deeply rooted faith. They also encouraged people to come by and join in even if it’s just for a lap or two.
“We have a Deacon from the church doing scripture readings every hour. We invite the public to come out. We have free coffee, hot chocolate, and popcorn to anyone who would like to come out and run with him or just spectate,” said Christina.
Several people had joined Brian on the track to show support. The effort has drawn a few donations from local businesses and a several members of the public. The couple hoped more would join in and be part of the event celebrating the New Year with a focus on the church.
“We just ask anyone who wants to contribute, all proceeds go to the church. We’re not taking any of it, it all goes to Morning Star Freewill Baptist Church,” said Christina.
The event is due to go all night and end at 7 a.m. on New Year’s Day, or when Brian completes mile 100. Christina was optimistic it might happen faster. The laps and miles are being recorded on the scoreboard at the track.
