5K race helps dreams come true

Illustration by Rebecca Kottke

The Recreational Outdoor Sports Program (RSOP) is partnering with the UMD Athletic Department in supporting the Make-A-Wish Foundation with a 5K run at Bagley Nature Center on Sunday, Sept. 30.

The Walk for Wishes race allowed the UMD and Duluth community to help and enjoy the beauty and stillness of nature right on campus.

Walk for Wishes is a national fundraiser to celebrate the many wishes that have been granted and help further the life-altering impact of a wish to children with their battle against critical illnesses.

Trista Anderson, fitness and wellness coordinator at UMD elaborated on the event, stating that RSOP student employees and UMD student athletes volunteer to set up bounce houses, register participants and assist with race operations.

“This is a very large event,” Anderson said, “last year drawing more than 250 participants.”

A wish is granted through this foundation every 34 minutes - delivering over 300,000 wishes.

RSOP hopes to further this effort.

“We are honored to host this event and give back to children and their families in our community,” Anderson said.

The event also offers a simple, leisurely walk through Bagley if  particpants are not keen on running. Anderson stated that most UMD students who have participated in the past find this race extremely challenging but equally just as fun.

“These children are the epitome of grace, strength and fortitude,” Anderson said.  “There is something very special about witnessing the power of human goodness and community building right here on campus.”

Registrations for the race are taken online at walkforwishes. Participants are to check in at 9 am with the race to begin at 10 am.

To participate in this race, UMD students are required to pay $15, while other community members are required to pay $20. All of the proceeds will help in supporting the Make-A-Wish Foundation.

For any further questions, stop by room 153 in the Sports & Health Center building.