The Jeff Clevenger 5k has attracted runners since the first step was taken ten years ago, but the event this Saturday is another bounding stride in a growing and evolving narrative that began in tragedy.
Ball State alumnus Daniel Clevenger began the event after his father, Jeff Clevenger, passed away from multiple sclerosis in 2009. Daniel Clevenger was the president of the Ball State Exercise Science Club and started the 5k as a way to raise awareness for multiple sclerosis and to raise money for the National Multiple Sclerosis Society. Daniel Clevenger built the run from the ground and organized it in a time of the year that was devoid of 5k events at the time.
“It became my baby because it was so close to my heart,” he said.
Daniel Clevenger graduated in 2010 but the 5k blossomed into a burgeoning legacy. This year the race will be paired with an accompanying health fair operated by Dr. Larry Judge’s EXSCI 320 immersive learning class.
“We want people to understand how important health is,” senior exercise science major Morgan Gipson said.
The fair will be at Northside Middle School on Bethel Ave., where willing participants can also register for the event. Visitors can receive evaluations on their blood pressure, blood glucose levels, height, weight, body composition and more.
Participants can then take this information to consultants in the exercise science 320 class and receive dietary, exercise and other health advice based on their readings. The fair is also serving smoothies and healthy snacks.
Visitors will be able to visit a booth that helps them understand the struggles of living with multiple sclerosis first hand, replicating symptoms like damaged touch perception. The exercise science course purchased food for the event, an expense that used to fall upon other organizers to contribute.
Additionally, the sports administration 402 course has put together promotional materials for the race.
Also, this year is the first time the race will use chipped timing, which organizers say will help ensure more quick and accurate results. Runners wear a small device on their shoe or bib and sensors along the route record the runner and their time.
Organizers said that this should expedite the presentation of prizes. Their goal is to present them the morning of the race instead of mailing them out like in years past.
The past three races have raised around $15,000. Exercise Science Club president Erin Yoeman hopes to set a new record and break the $5,000 mark.
Also, contributions from individuals outside of the exercise science major have been more prevalent this year, indicating an expansion of influence outside of the event’s community of origin.
Business sponsors have played a larger role than they have in the past. They not only provide lumps sums of cash for representation on banners or shirts, but they also provide coupons for runner’s swag bags.
The Indianapolis Colts contributed a package that includes a Colt’s yearbook, apparel and other gear for a silent auction that will also be hosted at Northside Middle School.
Yoeman said that pre-registration is modest, netting only around 70 runners. However, most participants register the day of. Organizers are anticipating 200 to 300 runners.
Events like these do more than raise awareness and research funds, they provide a meaningful emotional experience for families living with multiple sclerosis.
“It’s turned into a really powerful weekend,” Daniel said. “It’s a time to get together, support the cause and remember my dad.”
