Murray's Swim, Bike, Run Club is hosting a 5K for Carter's Kids on Campus, honoring former club member Jim Carter, former VP of Institutional Advancement at Murray State and former president of MSU's Alumni Association. On Sounds Good, race manager Brady Parks speaks with Tracy Ross about the run, Carter's Kids and how Jim Carter was dedicated to fitness and giving every child the opportunity to experience college.
Parks says the club wanted to do something for Jim Carter and thought the fund would be a perfect reason to do the run, where they can donate the money raised. A lot of sponsors around town have joined, he says. Carter's Kids helps brings kids to Murray State from high schools in the 18 county service area. Parks says Jim was brought to Murray State by a friend who was interested in looking at the track team. While his friend wound up not coming to MSU, Jim found a home at the university. He felt if he could bring kids to campus in the same way he was brought to campus, they may decide to stay.
The money raised in the 5K goes to the MSU Office of Development account for Carter's Kids. The overall goal is to raise $100,000. Starting next spring, kids will be bused to campus. Each bus trip costs $1,500, which includes transportation, food costs, going around town, giving kids souvenirs, etc.
Online registration is open until mid afternoon Friday and on-site registration is available the morning of the 5K from 7 a.m. until race time at 8 a.m. There's a $25 race fee, $15 for students, and a $2.50 sign up fee. Parks says it's Halloween, so bring a costume - there's a $50 prize for best costume, $30 for second and $20 for third.
