coordinator of student activities at the Nebraskan Student Union, 308.865.8523
Those searching for a competitive race, and those who just want to engage in some leisurely exercise, can find what they are looking for at the Fun 5k Run/Walk Saturday, April 21, at the University of Nebraska at Kearney.
Sponsored by the Loper Programming and Activities Council (LPAC) and open to the community, the event begins at 9 a.m. with the starting line located near Thomas Hall.
Jami Schaffnitt, UNK Student Activities officer, said the idea behind the Fun 5k is to create a healthy, fitness event that LPAC can sponsor. She said it is a great way to bring students and the community together to participate in a fun activity.
Schaffnitt said that the competitiveness of the participants varies, as some people train and practice for the event, while others stroll along for fun.
Fun 5k participants will circle the eastern half of the campus before making a full lap from Highway 30 to University Drive around UNK. Those wishing to register for the event can pick up an entry form in the Nebraskan Student Union or visit the LPAC web site at www.unk.edu/lpac, which also includes a map of the race route.
The Fun 5k is held each spring, and last year, the event attracted 36 business sponsors and approximately 250 participants. Not relegated to a student-only event, 30 percent of those running and walking are from of the Kearney community.
Registration for the event is free for UNK students until Saturday, April 14, after which there will be a $10 entry fee. Community members have a $15 entry fee until April 14, after April 14, the fee will increase to $20.
After the initial April 14 deadline, Schaffnitt said people can register at any time, even right up to the beginning of the race.
Schaffnitt said that the event is split into four divisions – male and female for both students and the community. She also said the top 30 times are recorded for each division, and the top three finishers are awarded prizes.
Prizes for the event are provided by the business sponsors. Potential winnings for competitors this year include restaurant gift cards, spa and massage treatments, and fitness gift certificates.
Funds raised by the Fun 5k are used for the Student Leadership Scholarship. Schaffnitt said the scholarship is awarded to students who have demonstrated outstanding leadership in student organizations, and LPAC waits until a significant amount of monies have been raised by the Fun 5k to award the scholarship.
