USI students, faculty and visitors should watch out for cupid’s arrow this Saturday as the Hearts on Fire 5k Run kicks off the Winter Melt Down Series.
The Valentine-themed event is the first of three scheduled this spring in the series, which aims to raise money for sport management scholarships and the professional development program.
“It was a huge honor to be approached to run the first race of the series,” Assistant Professor of Physical Education Glenna Bower said.
Bower and a group of loyal students put together the activities for the day and gathered as much support as they could.
Bower said they met once a week despite everyone’s full schedule.
The day will be filled with races, live entertainment, multiple booths sponsored by local businesses, clowns and inflatable bounce houses beginning at 7:30 a.m. lasting until noon.
Both couples and singles will vie for best cupid in a costume contest, where awards will be presented for best costume, best couples costume and best male and female cupid.
The race itself will not start until 9 a.m. Runners can still sign up to race until it starts.
The 550 runners that are currently signed up came as a surprise to Bower, who had low expectations for participation.
Bower said they initially expected about 350 people to run.
“For it being our first year, what we have accomplished is a huge success,” Bower said.
“I am so proud of the students,” she said. “They have so much heart.”
Awards will be given to the overall top male and female runners of the 5k and the top three male and female in each of the age divisions.
The Winter Melt Down Series will continue in March with the Run of Luck 7k and again in April with the SIC Marathon and Half Marathon.