On Saturday, Dec. 8, the Idaho State University Department of Sport Science and Physical Education (SSPE) is hosting the fourth annual Fitness Fair and Santa Claws 5k Fun Run at Reed Gym from 8:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
While last year the proceeds of the fun run went to support Brooklyn’s Playground and the Bengal Foundation, this year the SSPE hopes to donate all proceeds to the ISU Bengal Athletic Boosters and the newly created Jacquelyn R. Paulson Memorial Scholarship.
Paulson was a member of the ISU track and field program for 12 years until her untimely and unexpected passing in August of this year.
“The tragic accident that led to the loss of Jackie left ISU stunned and saddened,” student event director Jeff Struhs said in a press release. “Our class wants to honor her by offering an opportunity in something she loved. Jackie will continue to benefit the track program through the scholarship we set to create.”
The events begin at 8:30 a.m. with the hour-long fitness fair, and then continue with the children’s 1K at 9:30 and the adults’ 5K at 10:30.
The SSPE invites the community to “show how healthy and fit you are at the Fitness Fair,” where attendees are encouraged to educate themselves on the latest information from the health industry, as well as to have their athletic ability and physical endurance put the test by students in the SSPE program.
The kids’ 1K course is set to circle around the former Cadet Field, while the adult 5K course runs along the Red Hill footpath. Organizers noted that snow and ice will be cleared from all pathways for runner safety.
Promotions coordinator Carl Kuznicki encouraged participants to “stick around for all of the post-race festivities, including a prize raffle, great food donated by our generous sponsors, and a meet-and-greet with several ISU student athletes.”
This SSPE event is organized by the senior students of the department as part of a capstone project, and was advised by Assistant SSPE Professor Caroline Faure and Adjunct Instructor Elaine Foster.
Those interested in registering for the 1K or 5K can register at www.active.com, keyword “Santa Claws 5K.” The kids’ 1K is $10 while the adults’ 5K is $20.
