Students, staff and faculty at St. Peter’s School returned from spring break this week to kick off one of the school’s most cherished annual traditions—the 12th running of the St. Peter’s Urban Iditarod Race to End Hunger.
Inspired by the legendary Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race in Alaska, the Urban Iditarod was launched in 2013 by St. Peter’s teachers Jeff Strang and Charlie Henrich. What began as a creative way to engage students in service learning has since evolved into a cornerstone event of the school year, combining competition, community spirit and Catholic values.
This year’s event will culminate with a race on Monday, April 14, when ten teams of students, faculty and staff will take to the streets around the school, pulling decorated carts in a friendly competition reminiscent of Alaska’s 1,000-mile sled dog race from Anchorage to Nome. Each team will choose a unique name, adopt a patron saint and create a custom banner to reflect their group identity and mission.
In the days leading up to the main event, teams will compete in a series of challenges—including trivia contests, a talent show, dodgeball matches and a fundraising drive—all in support of the Catholic Charities HOPE Food Pantry in Mansfield.
“The Urban Iditarod is about more than raising money,” said Cassandra Parente, Head of School at St. Peter School. “It’s about forming students in faith, helping them understand the value of service, and giving them a joyful, hands-on way to make a difference in our community.”
The race also honors the legacy of St. Peter’s alumnus Matthew Failor, a 2000 graduate of the high school who has completed 14 Iditarod races in Alaska. In March 2025, Failor finished the race in 11th place—his best showing yet. His journey from the halls of St. Peter’s to the grueling trails of Alaska continues to inspire students and teachers alike.
“Matthew embodies the values of grit, perseverance and teamwork that we try to cultivate in our students every day,” Parente said. “He’s a living example of where a St. Peter’s education can take you.”
The event also underscores the school’s broader mission. At the heart of Catholic education is the call to serve others, and the Urban Iditarod provides a meaningful opportunity for students to live out that call while developing leadership, creativity and collaboration.
“As we prepare for this year’s race, we reflect on the 11 years of joyful service that brought us here,” said Parente. “It’s a reminder that our actions, no matter how small they may seem, can ripple outward and bring lasting good to others.”
Fundraising for the event begins next week. Supporters can donate online, sponsor a team, or drop off nonperishable food items at the school.
“We’re grateful to our community for continuing to support this tradition,” Parente added. “Every dollar raised and every can donated helps our students see that their work matters—and that our St. Peter’s community extends far beyond our campus.”
For more information, visit St. Peter’s social media channels or contact the school office at (419) 524-2572.
