In 1989, Mike Jay (Track Guy) and fellow Columbus Junction citizens started a competition that coincided with the town’s ‘River Junction Function’ (the Cedar and Iowa rivers join in Columbus Junction).
The ‘Triathlon’ featured 4-person teams. The first member ran a 5k to his/her teammates up river. Then two team members canoed down the Cedar River and handed-off to the biker who finished the out-and-back at Kingsbury Inn.
This was the inspiration behind Weekend Warrior.
What is Weekend Warrior?
Weekend Warrior is a captivating four-person team competition set to take place in Iowa City, May 29-30, 2026. This event combines a variety of sports — running, biking, golfing, and bowling — to ensure that each participant can excel in their preferred discipline.
A standout feature of Weekend Warrior is its commitment to family participation and enjoyment. The competition is designed to be engaging for everyone, including children and spectators, with a range of activities and amenities. Families are encouraged to either form their own diverse teams or support from the sidelines in a lively and encouraging atmosphere.
While scores are kept, the primary focus is on fun, participation, and creating lasting memories. The event promotes a family-friendly environment, inviting everyone to take part in a spirit of friendly competition. The inclusion of women, men, and coed teams underscores the event's commitment to inclusivity and diversity, celebrating a wide array of skills and teamwork in all activities. Are you ready to gather your team for this memorable adventure? Mark your calendars for Weekend Warrior!
Entry Fee: $200 per team. All team members recieve a commemorative shirt and more in a reusable gift bag,
Additionally, all proceeds from the event will benefit the Track Guy Foundation and Lymphoma research in honor of Casey Jay.
May 29-30, 2026
Schedule:
Friday night - May 29, 2026
Bowling at Colonial Lanes, Iowa City
5:30 p.m. Check-in, grab gift bag, food and drinks
6:30 p.m. Bowler bowls three games (score averaged)
Free bowling concurrently for families
Saturday morning-May 30, 2026
Golfers line-up at Pleasant Valley Golf Course for a 9 hole shotgun start beginning at 8:00 a.m. Breakfast items will be provided.
10:30 a.m. 25k bike starts on bike trail, directly behind Big Grove Iowa City. Chip timing will be used forthe bike and run.
Bowlers, golfers, and all that want to, can head into Big Grove to start the party!
By 10:45 a. 5k run will start using the same starting line as the bike.
25k bike and 5k run will finish directly into the after party at Big Grove-Iowa City.
A post event social is planned at Big Grove with award ceremony to coincide!
Can’t get a full team together? Don’t let that stop you!
If you want to be part of the energy but aren't ready to field a full team, you can still join us as an Individual 5K Runner. You’ll get to experience the best part of the morning, support a great cause, and earn your stripes on the course.
Individual 5K Entry – $50
Your registration doesn’t just get you on the starting line; it fuels the mission of the Track Guy Foundation.
What’s Included:
Official Race Entry: Timing and support for the Weekend Warrior 5K course.
Event T-Shirt: A limited-edition shirt to commemorate the day.
The Cause: Your entry fee goes directly toward supporting the Track Guy Foundation’s work in our community.