Theres no evidence John Brown ever used, or had even heard of the cave that bears his name south of Iola.
The fiery abolitionist, whose armed insurrections were instrumental in Kansas entering the union as a free state in 1861, became infamous for his ill-fated raid upon Harpers Ferry, one of the instigating factors of the Civil War.
As such, legends abound of Brown traipsing through eastern Kansas, leading legions of escaped slaves through the Underground Railroad, making full use of hiding spots along the way.
Fast forward a century and a half, to Saturday, where cycling and running enthusiasts will pay homage to one of the states most mercurial founding fathers with the John Brown Duathlon.
The combination endurance run and bike ride commences at 7 a.m. from outside the Recreation Community Building at Riverside Park.
The event features a 5-kilometer run in and around the park, a 40k bike ride up and back along the Prairie Spirit Trail, and finally a 10k trail run from the park to and from John Browns Cave along the Lehigh Portland Trail.
Organizer Ben Alexander noted those sheepish about completing all three legs solo can register teams to participate relay style.
Online registration closes tonight at midnight go to Facebook for details although participants can register the morning of the event.
The key, Alexander said, is to take your time, and have fun doing it.
The event is sponsored by Southwind Cycle and Outdoor.
For more information, or to inquire about volunteer opportunities, visit John Brown Duathlon on Facebook, or call (620) 228-5566.
