The Tabor Challenge returned to Mt. Tabor on April 11 at 10 a.m., bringing together students, families, and community members for a meaningful day of racing and remembrance. The annual event features a 5K run as its main attraction, along with a toddler trot and a dog-friendly race, making it accessible to participants of all ages.

Beyond the races, the event serves a deeper purpose: honoring the legacy of Thomas Cameron and supporting scholarships for Cleveland students. Throughout the course, members of Cleveland’s varsity boys soccer play an active role in keeping that spirit alive. 

“Our team lines up in various areas around the course to both cheer on the runners and help guide them along the route, which can be a little challenging,” said Nick Yoder, the varsity boys coach. “Truly, they are there as moral support and also as a reminder of who the run is supporting.”

Cameron, a former Cleveland student, was a great leader, a kind person, a successful student, and multisport athlete. After graduating from Cleveland, he went to the United States Coast Guard Academy, where he captained the soccer team. He joined the Coast Guard with a goal to serve others as a helicopter pilot, but he sadly passed away during a training mission in 2012. 

The goal of the Tabor Challenge is to remember Cameron, honor his life, and raise money for scholarships for Cleveland seniors who show the same strong values he had, organizers say.

While volunteering requires an early start, students understand the importance of their presence. 

“I don’t think the boys love waking up early on a Saturday to stand out in the cold and rain,” Yoder said. “However, what I remind them each year is how special the Cleveland community is and how many people talk about what a joy it is to see the guys on the course. They are a continuation of the legacy that was started by Thomas, and I think they take pride in that.”

Students also enjoy participating in the races and give it a lot of energy and fun. One of the most memorable moments from this past race was when Cleveland junior Davis Joy ran the race in a speedo, which brought a smile to everyone’s face.

The event also gives back to students by giving out scholarships. According to Yoder, senior students apply for the scholarship like any other applicant and do not need to be athletes,  reinforcing the event’s inclusive mission. 

Now in its 12th year, the Tabor Challenge has become a meaningful tradition for the Cleveland community. 

“I’ve met countless people in the last 10 years who are connected to Thomas in one way or another,” Yoder said. “Seeing them all rally around their support and love of his legacy is truly magical.”

Year after year, participants return not just for the race, but for the sense of connection it creates. 

“They all tell me how fortunate they feel to stay connected and continue to support the next generation of Cleveland students,” Yoder said. “It’s an amazing event.”

Overall, the event is a really cool way of showing how one person’s positive impact can continue to inspire others even years later.