Crazylegs Classic Race Coming Up April 30
March 21, 2005 | General News
The 24th annual Crazylegs Classic , an annual Athletic Department fundraiser named for legendary Badger Elroy 'Crazylegs' Hirsch, will take place Saturday, April 30, in Madison.
This spring-time tradition has received national recognition as a competitive running race as well as a fun walk for thousands of others. The Crazylegs Classic was named the No. 1 short-distance race in America by the USA Track & Field. Additionally, it has been rated one of the nation's 'Top 100 Events' by Runners World magazine and is one of only 20 races in the U.S. given 'Great Races, Great Places' recognition by the Road Runners Club of America.
The scenic 8k-course is considered a runner's delight, and its chip timing amenity provides the most accurate finish times. The course starts at the historic State Capitol, heads down State Street, winds through campus and then to Picnic Point before it returns down University Avenue to Camp Randall Stadium. Racers finish at the 50-yard line.
This year's two-mile walk route has been much improved. Walkers will travel the entire length of State Street, continue past Botany Gardens on Lathrop Drive, walk under the Camp Randall arch and finish at the stadium's 50-yard line.
The Crazylegs Classic finish has been made even better with the addition of college football's largest video board. Participants ' along with race fans, families and spectators ' can watch finishers on the video board as they enter the stadium.
'We've tried to enhance the race nearly every year, and we're excited that the 2005 runners will enter the stadium to reach the finish line and see their picture on the huge video board at the north end of the stadium, ' said UW Head Football Coach and Director of Athletics Barry Alvarez.
A post-race festival gives participants and spectators the chance to enjoy food, beverages and live music in the Camp Randall south end zone. Entertainment will be provided by the UW Marching Band and one of Wisconsin's favorite performing group, the LoveMonkeys.
Last year's classic, which took place just three months after the passing of Elroy Hirsch, saw record-breaking participation. Over 12,200 people from 35 different states ' including 130 Fun & Fitness teams participated. It was a 'great year to honor Mr. Hirsch', said Molly McClimon Watcke, the women's race winner.
The Crazylegs Classic includes an 8,000-meter run, two-mile walk and wheelchair race. The event has raised more than $2.5 million for UW Athletics. For more information, or to register, call 608-261-LEGS or go online at either www.crazylegsclassic.com or www.uwbadgers.com .
