BROOKINGS – Looking back on this time last year, October 2020, most people remember being in the middle of the ongoing pandemic.
Local radio host and ultra-runner Joel deBlonk has better memories – embarking on a run across the entire state of South Dakota. And soon he and his supporters can experience it all on the big screen.
“It feels surreal to me that I checked off one of my dream goals last year this time,” deBlonk said. “Not that I was counting, but to finish the 430 miles in 10 days, 7 hours and 16 minutes seems insane,” he joked.
“Even more crazy is that the documentary, ‘Dirtbagging Dakota,’ following the ups and downs of my run across the state, will be premiering on the big screen at Brookings Cinema 8,” deBlonk added.
During the run, South Dakota State University alum and film director Zeke Hanson followed deBlonk throughout his journey to document his achievement.
Brookings Cinema 8 has donated the use of the theater to show the film. “Dirtbagging Dakota” will premiere at 6:30 p.m. Monday, Oct. 18.
Tickets are $10, and a live Q&A will follow with deBlonk and Hanson.
DeBlonk and Cinema 8 want to include the community in this premiere since they rallied behind deBlonk last year by showing up out on the highways and along his route to cheer him on.
Anyone who attends the showing of “Dirtbagging Dakota” will be able to register a local charity of their choice into a drawing that night. A portion of the proceeds from the premiere will go directly to the charity drawn during the live Q&A following the film.
For more information, visit Joel deBlonk - JAdRunning or Brookings Cinema 8 on Facebook.
