Like Father, Like Son: The Conway Legacy

We hike Pulpit Rock for the views — and for the stories waiting at the top. Support Decorah News today. DECORAH — Abe Conway is a sophomore cross-country runner at Luther College, and he's well aware of his dad's personal record in the 5,000 meters. He rattles it off without hesitation: "Dad's at 15:50, but I'm getting close." Abe's current PR is 16:24, so he's not far behind. The two have a relaxed sensibility about them, and both share a love for running. Scott Conway grew up in the area and has coached cross country at South Winneshiek High School since the early 2000s. But when it comes to his son catching his PR, Scott admits, "I'm past my competitive days." That might be true, but if you've been around any race in northeast Iowa during the past 20 years, you've probably seen Scott, with his signature shoulder-length hair and headband. Scott graduated from Postville High School in 1988 and attended Wartburg College, where he ran cross country. He has taught and coached at South Winneshiek since 2002. As for his son choosing Luther over his alma mater, Scott said he's glad Abe made that decision. "I'm glad he's [at Luther]," Scott said. "My coaching philosophy lines up with the Pasches." He's referring to Steve and Yarrow Pasche. The duo has been coaching cross country and track at Luther for nearly 20 years, where they've coached dozens of all-conference and all-American runners, who've gone on to have a lot of success both on and off the course. In terms of philosophies, Steve and Yarrow focus on the whole student—developing student- athletes to be engaged and curious. To help them find their calling—whether in the medical field, a boardroom, or a classroom, the Pasches' interest remains focused on developing the whole student, as both student and athlete. Coach Steve Pasche said having Abe on the team has been a joy. "Abe has been a delight to have on our team," Pasche said. "Even last year as a college first-year, Abe quickly became one of the leaders within his class, and within the team as a whole. He brings a 'get it done' work ethic to our practices, and always a goofy sense of humor that keeps things interesting." Abe's leadership extends beyond practice and competition. He helped organize the Jamison Meyer Memorial 5k, an annual race that raises money for a running scholarship awarded to a local student. "Through this race, we hope to celebrate Jamie's life, raise awareness about mental health, and offer support to others in our community," Abe said. "The race is in memory of Jamison Meyer, a former South Winn. cross country runner." As for his current season, Abe remains optimistic and determined. "Yeah, I think I'll catch my dad's PR by the end of the season," he said with a smile. Scott smiles too—a knowing smirk that acknowledges, yes, one day, the son will surpass the father. Coach Pasche, reflecting on the legacy of runners from northeast Iowa, said it's been rewarding to see so many athletes from the region continue their running careers. "Northeastern Iowa has a tradition of outstanding high school cross country, and it's definitely a special honor to coach runners who came from the soil right in the area," Pasche said. "For many of them, I've been watching them run since the eighth or ninth grade, seeing them grow as runners. For some, I know enough of their backstory to even be aware of their growth and journey as people. Some of the most top-notch runners and human beings I've ever coached have come from right here in the area. It's an honor to be a part of their next step." All puns aside, Abe is glad he took his next step to attend and compete at Luther. "It's been nothing but great for me so far, and I'm looking forward to what's next," he said. "Mostly improving, putting in the miles and hanging out with the team." Never a dull moment! Subscribe to the free DecorahNews.com newsletter and stay one step ahead with local news and information you just can't get anywhere else.