A high school runner from Iowa was recently disqualified for helping another competitor during a recent event.

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It was Zach Houghland's dream to become Davis County High School's first ever cross country district champion, and last week, he nearly accomplished his goal. Sadly, however, after finishing the race first, Houghland was disqualified from the meet after officials learned he had stopped to help a rival along the way.

"Hougland’s coach says the other runner was on the ground unconscious. Without a second thought, Hougland returned to the course and helped him get closer to the finish line," WQAD reported on Thursday.

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"I see this kid, he's like dying and what not, and he's about ready to fall," Hougland told WHO-TV. “I didn't want anyone to see me break down because I couldn't take it, all that work for nothing. But If I could do it all again I wouldn't change a thing because I did what I thought was right."

Houghland was disqualified due to a rule which stated that runners are not allowed to help or recieve aid from other runners.

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Tags: high school marathon