Tony Oveson wants to take on the entire International Falls cross country team in a 24-hour endurance run, or at least it seems that way.

In what the 65-year-old Oveson acknowledges is a “more of a gimmick” to raise funds for the cross country team and also promote a healthier lifestyle, he has proposed setting up two treadmills — one for himself and another for the cross country team — for a “running duel” at Smokey Bear Park during the International Falls Bass Championship in late August.

Though the details are still being finalized, Oveson, who is an ultra-runner, is challenging the cross country team to running against him for 24 hours or 100 miles, “whichever comes first for me,” from Aug. 24-25.

“I’ll be ready to run against the team,” Oveson said.

Oveson ran June 16 in the Garry Bjorklund Half Marathon, which he finished the 13.1 miles in 2 hours, 3 minutes and 8 seconds.

With the treadmills set up under a canopy at the park as they keep track of the distance run, Oveson said he would be running around the clock while taking an hourly 5-minute rest break as members of the cross country team take turns running.    

Oveson said everything would be donated to hold the challenge, so that 100 percent of the proceeds could benefit the cross country team. He noted people would be able to donate a fixed amount, such as in a donation can, or make a pledge per minute or per mile, either for him or the cross country team.

Oveson said he would like to do the challenge on an annual basis, but is presently taking  it “one year at a time.”