Ames Businessman Aims to Run Across Iowa in Under 4 Days

Clayton Mooney targets breaking the state's long-distance running record in 2027.

Mar. 31, 2026 at 12:08pm

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Clayton Mooney, the owner of Clayton Farms in Ames, Iowa, has set his sights on breaking the state's long-distance running record by attempting to run across the entire state of Iowa in less than four days in 2027. Mooney has spent years training and pushing his limits on trails and backroads as part of his mission to provide 'better food for more people' through his business.

Why it matters

Mooney's ambitious goal to run across Iowa in record time highlights the growing popularity of extreme endurance challenges and the ability of local business owners to use their platform to inspire their communities. If successful, Mooney's feat could draw national attention to Iowa's natural beauty and the state's thriving running culture.

The details

Mooney plans to cover the roughly 330 miles across Iowa by running an average of 80-90 miles per day over the course of four days. He will need to maintain a grueling pace and overcome physical and mental fatigue to achieve his goal. Mooney has been steadily increasing his training mileage and has already completed several 100-mile ultramarathon races as preparation.

  • Mooney plans to attempt the record-breaking run in 2027.
  • He has spent years training and competing in ultramarathon events to prepare for the challenge.

The players

Clayton Mooney

The owner of Clayton Farms in Ames, Iowa, who is training to run across the state in under four days, aiming to break the existing record.

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What they’re saying

“At Clayton Farms, our mission is better food for more people.”

— Clayton Mooney, Owner, Clayton Farms

What’s next

Mooney will continue his intense training regimen over the next several years to prepare for his record-breaking attempt in 2027.

The takeaway

Mooney's ambitious goal to run across Iowa in record time showcases the entrepreneurial spirit and athletic drive of local business owners who are using their platforms to inspire their communities and push the limits of human endurance.