Submitted by Saint Martin’s University
Ring in the season of giving by partaking in Saint Martin’s Jingle Bell Run, a holiday-themed, five-kilometer race that will take place Saturday, December 7, at 10 a.m. Presented by Puget Sound Energy, the festive event will be held on the Saint Martin’s University campus. Check-in and day-of registration begins at 8 a.m. in the Norman Worthington Conference Center, and the race starts outside of the Hal and Inge Marcus Pavilion. Pre-registered runners can also pick up their packets Friday, December 6, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. in the Norman Worthington Conference Center.
Participants can run, walk or stroll the five-kilometer route on the University’s wooded campus. A finish-line celebration, featuring Christmas cookies, cider and cocoa, will immediately follow the race.
Those not interested in running a full 5k race can still be part of the fun; registration includes an option to compete in the 1.55-mile run/walk, providing another opportunity to enjoy the beauty of Saint Martin’s University’s campus, as well as a decorated Christmas tree in front of Old Main. The run/walk will begin at 9:30 a.m.
People of all ages may participate and age group awards will be presented. Proceeds of the race will benefit Saint Martin’s Athletics. Parking is free.
“This is the second year we’ve held the Jingle Bell Run, but already the event has proven to be a wonderful way for the surrounding community to support the University while having a great time,” says Katie Wojke, interim vice president of institutional advancement at Saint Martin’s. “We’re confident it will remain an annual, holiday tradition for years to come!”
Registration includes chip timing by Accustat Sports Timing Inc., a race finisher long-sleeved t-shirt and a raffle entry (must be present to win).
Registration fees are as follows: preregistration (until Dec. 4) $35; military $30; high school and college students (with valid I.D.) $5; day-of registration $45; kids 8 and under free (no t-shirt or chip timer included). Additional t-shirts are available while supplies last.
The University’s Student Athlete Advisory Committee will be fundraising for the Make A Wish Foundation before and after the run, in conjunction with the National Collegiate Athletic Association Division II. The SAAC is also encouraging participants to bring a canned food item to donate to a food drive the group is hosting throughout the day.
The event is sponsored by Puget Sound Energy, L&E Bottling, Hanson Subaru, Olympia Federal Savings and Bliss Investments.
