At this year’s seventh annual Crimson Classic 5k and 1.5 mile walk, over 1,000 people gathered to celebrate the University of Denver community. The Crimson Classic is a yearly event that works to celebrate wellness and show Pioneer pride by bringing together those at DU and the surrounding areas.

Despite rainy conditions early in the afternoon, Carnegie Green was still filled with runners and their families as the build up for the race began. The lawn boasted a variety of activities for those in attendance and housed many booths focused on community and individual wellness. While munching on free healthy snacks, runners could enter to win a free bike or a free set of kickboxing classes at DU’s Ritchie Center. Or, kids and families could play a game of cornhole and take on a friend in a giant game of Jenga as they waited for the race to begin.

The Crimson Classic is also known for its annual costume competition. This year’s winner was a group dressed up as tortoises and hares but the competition was tough. Carnegie Green was filled with unicorns, dinosaurs, butterflies, and a zoo of animals as people waited for the race to begin.

Before the horn blew, DU’s own athletic and wellness staff led the runners in a dynamic warmup that got the community dancing and ready to go. Chancellor Dr. Jeremy Heafner then gave a few words before bringing out a very special guest. DU alum, three time All-American, and Pro Football Hall of Fame inductee Floyd Little joined the chancellor on stage and blew the horn, signaling the start of the race.

Cheered on by Denver’s dance and cheer teams, the runners and walkers ran a 1.5 mile loop around campus and had the choice of whether or not to complete the loop twice to make the run a 5k race. More members of the dance and cheer teams were positioned throughout the route, passing out water and keeping up the runners’ spirits. Upon finishing, runners were invited to a post-run celebration on the green with the music and activities from before the race still up and running.

The Crimson Classic 5k and 1.5 mile walk is hosted annually and is now a part of the University of Denver’s homecoming festivities. The run has become a great event that brings together the community to celebrate health, wellness, and Pioneer pride.