J.R. Ogden's stories

Cedar Rapids Marathon Weekend draws double the expected field in first year
All it took was a simple call to Cedar Rapids Tourism and director of sports Jay Fanta. Laura Jass already knew Mr. Fanta from her time as director of sports tourism with Catch Des Moines, so the relationship was solid.…
Stow Sports Management focused on many things, including 2028 Olympics
Have you ever wondered what that person across the street, down the street, maybe living…

For the Heartlanders, the biggest opponent is the bottom line
Editor’s note: This is the second in a two-part series examining the Iowa Heartlanders professional…

Mark Ironside is a busy man of many talents
Who is Mark Ironside? Well, Mr. Ironside was a two-time national champion wrestler at the…

Heartlanders to sit out a season, but owner vows return to Coralville ice
Editor’s note: This is the first in a two-part series looking at the Iowa Heartlanders…

Two Kernels veterans find their next act at Prospect Meadows
Jack Roeder needed his “security blanket.” Doug Nelson needed to get as far away as…

How the Iowa City Area Sports Commission turned wrestling into a $16M economic powerhouse
Luke Eustice was asked recently what sets the sports commission at the Iowa City/Coralville Area…

Tee time, any time: The indoor golf boom that’s taking over the Corridor
When Sean McCarty was growing up in West Branch, he had an advantage not every…

Business of Sports: Paul Gavin and Mount Mercy University
Paul Gavin enjoyed his long career as the men’s basketball coach at Mount Mercy University.…

Business of Sports: Iowa City gym skips resolution rush
Adam Rees is not your typical fitness coach. And Grit Gym is not your typical…

Game on: CBJ launches the Business of Sports column series
After more than a few weeks away from the grind of daily sports, sports editing…






