DURANGO, Colo. — In memory of Marc Witkes, long-time Durango resident and distance runner who was a figurehead for the sport locally, Steamworks Brewing Co. and Star Liquors have announced a joint donation of $3360.91 to the Marc Witkes Memorial Scholarship at Fort Lewis College. Funds were raised through activities associated with the Steamworks-Animas Valley Half Marathon, held June 11, 2011.

The annual half marathon is a partnership of Steamworks Brewing Co., Durango Motorless Transit, and the Durango Sports Club. The 2011 event sold out, drawing 300 runners, who, in addition to the scholarship donation, helped raise more than $3,000 for Durango Motorless Transit to help fund future running activities.

Star Liquors highlighted Steamworks' brews as “Beer of the Month” for June, donating $0.50 of each 6-pack of Steamworks beer sold — or $175 total — to the Witkes Scholarship.

“All this was possible because people continue to come out and support the effort, even in tough times,” said Kris Oyler, Steamworks co-founder, noting that proceeds dipped slightly from the 2010 event. “But we're thrilled to be able to continue to support young distance runners in memory of Marc. Since 2008 we've been able to contribute more than $11,500 to the scholarship.”

The Marc Witkes Memorial Scholarship is presented annually to a Four Corners area cross country runner attending Fort Lewis College. Witkes, an avid runner and former president of Durango Motorless Transit, passed away Dec. 10, 2006, less than 300 yards from the finish line at the Tucson Marathon.