The Rec Center’s fifth Pump and Run event starts at 8 a.m. Saturday.
The event will include a 5k around Marshall University’s campus and weightlifting. The event was modeled after the Arnold Classic. Race Director Michele Muth said participants do not have to be superstars to compete, and the event sponsors understand people who can run a 5k and lift their own body weight, are a rare breed.
Marshall student Jenna Turner has participated in 5ks in the past but said she was not going to participate in the Pump and Run Event.
“If I knew I could do it I would go, but I can’t lift.” Turner Said.
Marshall student Zach Sturger said he likes competition, but he will also not be participating in the Pump and Run Event this weekend.
“I can lift, but I hate running.” Sturger Said.
Muth said the average turnout for the event is about 30 people, and they are mostly male.
Marshall freshman Rachel Sweeney said she has participated in other races and plans on participating in the Pump and Run someday.
“There’s a lot of 5ks in Huntington,” Muth said. “Its become such the norm that for us to throw something out there to the public that’s a little unique in a way, kind of means a lot to us and its our fifth time doing it so its becoming a winter tradition.“
Even though the turnout is low, the Rec Center still plans to continue the event for years to come.
Mercedez Speight can be contacted at [email protected].