2023 Inductee
The first IGH-SAU state Cross Country meet was held in 1966 at the Hillcrest Country Club in Adel with 18 teams and a total of 107 runners. Margaret Benjamin won the individual title, running the 1.25 mile course in 7:30, while leading Central, Argyle, now Central Lee, to the first team title as well. Girls Cross Country in Iowa was just 1 class until the fall of 1978.
Margaret was also a State Track Champion; winning gold on the Sprint medley in 1965, the 880 yard relay in 1966 and the Mile Relay in 1967. She was also a state meet medalist in the Long Jump. Track and Field was 1 class until the spring of 1977.
Margaret has lived in Ocala, Florida for the past 40 years. She retired from the City of Ocala and is married to Charles Winstead. She has a daughter, April and a granddaughter, Hannah, who also live in Florida.
Margaret would like you to know the following:
“I will always be grateful to the state of Iowa for supporting girls track and field and cross country. These programs offer the opportunity for girls to compete, develop skills & self-confidence and make friendships and connections that prepare you for life. This opportunity made me who I am today – thank you!”
An interesting side note, Davis Eidahl, who just finished his 61st year overall of coaching Cross Country and his 60th at Pekin, was in Adel that day as well, coaching the Pekin girls to an 8th place finish.