If Patterson High Principal Dave Stubbs wasn’t a runner before, he can be counted as one now.

Over the past year and a half, Stubbs has run a long way — officially, the distance of a full marathon and a half marathon, plus innumerable training runs.

Now he’s preparing to take on the 34th annual Bidwell Classic half marathon March 5 in Chico.

“I am following a fairly regimented training schedule that I have created with the help of online coaches,” Stubbs said. “I’m not trying to break any records or set a time goal. I just enjoy running, and the events are a lot of fun to take part in.”

Stubbs is also hitting the pavement to raise funds for Patterson Recognizing Individuals Determined to Excel scholarships, community-based awards that help graduates of Patterson Unified School District high schools continue their education.

Stubbs said he aims to raise $1,000 to help a local student pay the cost of attending college.

“I wanted to raise money when I ran the (San Diego Rock ‘N Roll) marathon, but the event was in June, and it was my first one,” Stubbs said. “Now that I know I can finish, I wanted to provide another opportunity for our students to be awarded a scholarship.”

But it isn’t as simple as lacing up his running shoes and pinning on a number. Preparing for a half marathon involves long hours of training, not only on the road, but also in the gym, in addition to dietary and mental considerations.

“The challenge is sticking to a training plan and running so many miles,” Stubbs said. “When I go out and do a 10-to 12-mile run, it takes a few hours and then I’ve got to make sure I get enough rest so I can keep training.

“I’ve chosen running half marathons and marathons at this stage of my life and career because it’s a great stress reliever.”

Stubbs said he has found a place of retreat in his running, which helps him bring things into focus.

“I always train alone, and it’s usually when I come up with some of my best ideas,” he said.

As an educator, Stubbs also hopes to inspire the students at Patterson High.

“It’s important to me, because I know how much the costs of attending college have risen recently,” he said. “Patterson High is sending more and more students to universities every year, and it is my hope to raise at least $1,000 in pledges to help a deserving student.”

He said he hopes to see the resulting scholarship given to a track or cross country runner.

“P.R.I.D.E. is an outstanding organization that gives thousands and thousands of dollars to our students each year, and I thought it was a natural fit,” he said.

At a glance

Those who wish to sponsor Patterson High School Principal Dave Stubbs in his half-marathon run can send contributions to Patterson Recognizing Individuals Determined to Excel, P.O. Box 1543, Patterson, CA 95363; or to Patterson High School, 200 N. Seventh St., Patterson, CA 95363. Checks should be made out to P.R.I.D.E. and include a note about the Bidwell half marathon.