FARGO - A local standout athlete is using his fast feet to lend a hand to kids in need.
It's no secret Davies senior Hunter Lucas is fast.
He sets records and is currently dashing to the finish line at a national meet in New York, but his desire to give back is not as obvious.
When the University of Minnesota-bound runner won Gatorade's Cross Country Runner of the Year, he took it humbly.
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"I was lucky enough to be chosen from North Dakota," said Lucas.
He deliberated what to do with the $1,000 prize included with the award, but eventually knew who he wanted to get the check.
"I chose shoes for kids with the Fargo Marathon because that's where it all starts-you need a good pair of shoes," said Lucas.
The speedster is using his prize to put shoes on the feet of needy children.
Shoes for kids runs through the Fargo Marathon, and organizer Mark Knutson says the metro has a huge need for kicks for kids.
"About this time spring, we're getting calls from schools asking if we have more shoes," said Knutson.
But Lucas didn't pick shoes for kids on a whim.
"Hey, I'm in New York right now for it, hopefully other kids will be able to do that too. I get to do things with my life I never thought I'd be able to do. Hopefully it gives other kids that opportunity also," said Lucas. "I might help out some kid today who could become a great runner locally."
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As fast as he is, Lucas' greatest strides may have been made off the course.
"I want more kids to have the opportunity I've been given," said Lucas.
Lucas' donation will provide shoes for up to 40 kids in Moorhead, Fargo and West Fargo.
If you're interested in contributing to "Shoes for Kids" click here.
