The University of Southern Indiana will kick off its Screaming Eagles Running Series on February 9 with the third annual Hearts on Fire 5K.
More than 750 runners are expected to participate in the event, which will begin at 9 a.m. on USI’s campus. USI sport management students are handling the planning of the event.
“The value for the students is to give them the opportunity to use the skills they’ve learned in the classroom,†said Dr. Glenna Bower, chair of the Department of Kinesiology and Sport.
The 5K will be followed by the Cupid Fun Run for children and a post-race funfest inside the Recreation and Fitness Center. Children ages 2 to 10 will run or walk distances of 50 meters up to a half mile. All child runners will receive medals for participation. The funfest will include free food and giveaways, inflatables, and multiple vendors.
For the Hearts on Fire 5K, the top three male and female runners in each of four age groups will be recognized in an awards ceremony following the race. Awards also will be given to best overall male and female and top challenged athlete in each division, as well as best cupid costume and others.
“We’re providing community members with an opportunity to lead a healthy lifestyle and come together as a community in a social event,†said Bower.
The 5K is the first of three runs in the series. The Run of Luck 7K, in its 13th year, will take place on March 16, followed by a new event to the series, the Spring into Fitness 10K, on April 13. All proceeds from the series will go to the USI Sport Management scholarship fund, professional development opportunities, and future events offered through the Department of Kinesiology and Sport.
Registration is available online or the day of the event. The cost for a single race is $20 in advance or $25 the day of. Registration for all three races is $55. The Kids Fun Run series is free. Participants can check in the night before the race from 5 to 8 p.m. or on race day at 7:30 a.m. in the Recreation and Fitness Center.
Source: USI.edu
