Utah State creates canine category for homecoming week activities

By Mikala Lindhardt

 

For the first time dogs were invited to join the annual 5K Bull Run, held this year for Utah State University’s homecoming week, as registered participants.

 

“This race, which has been billed as a family outing, can include everyone in the family, including the family dog,” said Josh Paulsen, the marketing director for the Alumni Center. “We ended up having close to a 15 percent increase in attendance this year than last year.”

 

According to Paulsen, the university was consistently getting the same number of people for the 5K. By including the canine category, event organizers sought for more students, faculty and alumni to get involved.

 

“We thought we could draw in a new audience with this addition and it would also be fun to add a fun element with people dressing up their dogs and all,” Paulsen said.

 

The annual 5K run and the new dog walk were free to the public. However, participants could purchase a Utah State bandana for $5. The money earned from these sales covered the cost of the event, and the additional profit was given to the USU Spirit Squad.

 

Paulsen said, approximately $2,200 was raised this year.

 

"All donations that come from USU's campus and the surrounding Cache Valley area are greatly appreciated," said Madison Maners, the public relations and marketing director for USU student Association. "We could not do the things we do without the support of our community."

 

Paulsen said he and his committee feel this event is an enjoyable family outing. They hope people had fun dressing up their dogs and participating in an enjoyable fundraising race.

 

"We are planning on doing the race again next year," he said. "We're excited to see if we can grow it."