Couch to 5K Group Prepares Runners for Ninth Annual Blazer Dash

The Ninth Annual Blazer Dash is to be held Saturday, Aug. 23 at Valdosta State University.

VALDOSTA – Those gearing up for Valdosta State University’s Ninth Annual Blazer Dash can join the Couch to 5K Group to form teams and prepare for the race. The group was created to build a friendly and competitive atmosphere leading up to the Aug. 23 event, and help participants motivate each other and develop better results.

The Couch to 5K Group is spearheaded by Kyle Culpepper, instructional technology specialist at VSU.

“The support group is something new for the campus,” said Culpepper. “Group members can get together and coordinate times to run together and exchange tips on what techniques they can use to better themselves before the event.”

Culpepper, who often leads fitness workouts on campus, added that the group serves as a way to motivate people to improve their lifestyles altogether.

“It motivates me to see others strive for the best in these areas,” said Culpepper.

Hosted by VSU’s Campus Recreation and Campus Wellness, the Blazer Dash includes a 5K run and walk as well as a one-mile youth walk and run.

Early registration for the event is $15 and ends Friday, Aug. 8. Regular registration is $20 and same day registration is $25. The group rate is $15 and requires pre-registration of 10 or more participants. Ghost runners can register at $15. One mile youth splash walk/run Registration is $10.

Race day registration begins at 6:30 a.m. and course markers will be positioned to provide directions on the day of the race. The race will start and end in front of the recreation center on Sustella Road at 7:30 a.m.

Men’s and women’s division categories include ages 13-17, ages 18-29, ages 30-50 and ages 51 and up. There will also be one overall winner for the 12 and under category. The one-mile will have ribbons for all participants and one overall prize winner. Random drawing prizes will be awarded as well.

For more information about the Blazer Dash, contact Campus Recreation at (229) 333-5898 or Campus Wellness at (229) 259-5106. Participants can register online https://runsignup.com/Race/GA/Valdosta/BlazerDash5Kand1mile? or download a  hard copy http://www.valdosta.edu/administration/finance-admin/campus-wellness/5k-campus-fun-run.php  and join the Couch to 5K Group on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/groups/5krunandwalk/ .