UA Little Rock to Host 5K
The Run Down the Hogs 5K — the University of Arkansas at Little Rock’s first camo-themed 5K — welcomes runners of all levels of fitness and will aid a worthy cause.
Participants are encouraged to bring shelf-stable food items to support the Trojan Food Pantry, which serves students, faculty and staff of UA Little Rock. Students, faculty, staff, and community are invited to wear camo and maroon Friday, Nov. 13, as the 5K leads into a weekend of Trojans home basketball games, with the men hosting Northwestern State at 7 p.m. the following night, and the women hosting the Arkansas Razorbacks at 7 p.m. on Monday, Nov. 16.
“It all just aligns perfectly, and we hope to see lots of people dressed up,” said Julie Magaña, Student Government Association (SGA) vice president. “We all thought a 5K would be absolutely great — everyone is excited about it — and we’ve gotten so many registrations.”
The officially-chipped 5K — which begins and concludes on Trojan Way — starts at 4 p.m. and will feature free food, as well as the the Trojan Pep Band and performances by the Trojan Dance Team. The event is presented by SGA, in cooperation with the Student Activities Board and Little Rock Athletics.
“I was in cross country and ran track (at Bryant High School), and I know there are a lot of people like me who want to be active,” said Otto Sandh, head of 5K operations. “A 5K is a big accomplishment, and an opportunity to compete, totally free.”
Participants interested in a more leisurely pace are also welcome for the 5K, which follows a scenic route through trails on campus, said Sandh, a sophomore nursing student. “I personally mapped the route, and I hope to see lots of people (along the route) cheering on the runners.”
A recreational runner, this will be Magaña’s first 5K, so “I’m a little nervous” the sophomore marketing major said with a laugh. Fortunately, “I’ve been getting some really good tips from Otto.”
Those willing to volunteer for the event can sign up online using the Run Down the Hogs 5K volunteer sign-up form.
To sign up for the 5K, use the event registration form.