Runners Will Begin 480-Mile Relay Across North Dakota
The 12-person team kicks off their journey on October 15 to support families coping with infant loss.
Updated on Oct. 6, 2026 in Running
Starting October 15, 2026, twelve runners will embark on a 480-mile relay run across North Dakota, traveling from Medora to West Fargo. This event, known as the 10.15 Project, aims to raise funds for Haven Midwest, an organization dedicated to supporting families who have experienced pregnancy and infant loss.
Why it matters
The relay coincides with Pregnancy and Infant Loss Remembrance Day, serving as a platform to foster community and camaraderie among grieving parents. By highlighting these experiences, the project works to provide vital resources to families navigating the difficult aftermath of pregnancy and infant loss.
The relay spans 480 miles from Medora to West Fargo and involves 12 participating runners. Terry Vandrovec, 47, leads the effort after initiating a training regimen in April that began with one mile of daily running.
The players
Terry Vandrovec
A 47-year-old athlete who is organizing and participating in the 480-mile charity relay run.
Haven Midwest
A non-profit organization based in the Fargo-Moorhead area that provides resources and support for families experiencing pregnancy and infant loss.
The details
The 10.15 Project honors the 133 days the Vandrovec family spent in the NICU by completing this cross-state journey. The run serves as a physical challenge meant to bridge communities and provide support for those connected through Haven Midwest.
Timeline
Terry Vandrovec began his daily training for the relay in April 2026.
The 480-mile relay run is scheduled to begin on October 15, 2026.
Season Trajectory
This relay aligns its mission with the annual observance of Pregnancy and Infant Loss Remembrance Day to maximize national and regional awareness. By linking physical endurance to a specific cause-based date, the organizers are attempting to build a sustainable fundraising model for future years.
Residents along the route from Medora to West Fargo may see the team of 12 runners as they progress across the state. The project specifically benefits the operations of Haven Midwest, directly impacting the availability of support resources for families in the region.
The takeaway
The 10.15 Project demonstrates how personal endurance challenges can be effectively utilized to raise awareness and funds for specialized non-profit causes. Those interested in supporting the mission can follow the progress of the runners throughout their journey across the state.
Further reading
For more on community-focused athletic events, see Running.
Source note: This article includes information reported by KELO-LAND TV.
