Bright-eyed and bushy-tailed, runners and walkers alike participated in the Black Squirrel 5k Race and 1-mile Walk/Roll/Run that kicked off Saturday in front of the Beverly J. Warren Student Recreation and Wellness Center for the 12th year.
The 5k run followed a route running to the front of campus and back, and the 1-mile walk takes people down the Esplanade through the Science Mall and around the Library. It was done under perfect conditions for runners: a pleasant 45 degrees and sunny, which contributed to the strong turnout.
“You couldn’t ask for a better turnout,” Elizabeth Michel, Assistant Director of Fitness and Wellness for Kent State Department of Recreation and Wellness Services, said.
Michel, who has served as the Race Director for the Black Squirrel 5k and 1-Mile Fun Walk for the past three years, says the 2024 race turnout surpassed the pre-pandemic turnout.
“I think it was 477 total (attendees) between the 5k and the 1-mile,” Michel said.
Cadie Pierce is a staff photographer. Contact her at cpierc21@kent.edu.
