The Indiana University East Run with the Wolves 5K returns to campus this year, though a little later than usual because of the 2020 COVID-19 pandemic.

IU East’s Run with the Wolves 5K is Saturday, September 25.

Terry Wiesehan, director of Alumni Relations at IU East, expects the popular event scheduled for Saturday, September 25, will again draw hundreds of participants. “We are excited to be back,” she said, noting the run will be the largest public event on campus since the pandemic began in early 2020.

First responders and front-line healthcare workers can sign up for free as a thank-you for their hard work and assistance throughout the past year. “This is our way of thanking them for their service during the pandemic.”

The event takes place on campus and the Red Wolves’ cross country course, located behind Hayes Hall. The Run with the Wolves 5K includes a “Run with Rufus” 1K family run/walk. All pre-registrants receive a Run with the Wolves race shirt.

“This year’s shirt is awesome, and everyone will want to register to guarantee one,” Wiesehan said.

Day-of-race registration opens at 7 a.m. on September 25 at the Hayes Hall patio, located on the lower level of the building. The 5K run/walk starts at 8 a.m. followed by the “Run with Rufus” 1K at 9:05 a.m. Awards will be presented at 9:25 a.m. at the Hayes Hall patio.

Run with the Wolves is part of the Wayne County Challenge series.

Brian Schleeper, race director with Wayne County Challenge, said the first two races to return in 2021 after an entirely virtual season last year has gone over well.

“The first two races have seen good turnouts, so the runners and walkers are happy to be back to live races,” Schleeper said.

Register online at iue.edu/5k. The pre-registration cost is $20, and day-of registration is $25. Students in grades K-12 and college can pre-register for $15 or register on race day for $20. Pre-register by September 17 to ensure a shirt.

Proceeds from the event will support student scholarship programs funded through the IU Alumni Association East Region.

For more information, contact Terry Wiesehan, director of Alumni Relations, at (765) 973-8221 or email twiesaha@iue.edu.