The men of Galaxy will conduct their 28th annual Kirk Goodwin Run at 8 a.m. Saturday.
The start and finish lines will be in front of the Hardin Administration Building. The race is 3.1 miles, but participants do not have to run. However, it’s a chip-timed event and runners will receive their official times.
Registration is $15 pre-race and $20 race day. Runners may register online at www.abilenerunners.com or in the Campus Center on Monday through Friday from 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Participants may also print a registration form from the Abilene Runners website and mail it to 604 E. North 16th St., Abilene, TX, 79601.
All proceeds will go to Samantha Bahl and her family, said Greg Oglesby, senior English literature major from Abilene and president of the Kirk Goodwin Run committee.
“Galaxy does not receive a penny from this race,” Oglesby said. “We host the event, but do not gain any money.”
Oglesby said Bahl is an ACU student who was diagnosed with a rare form of cancer.
Galaxy has raised enough money, through sponsors, to pay for all T-shirts and racing services, Oglesby said. Now that those items are paid for, money from anyone who signs up or gives a donation goes directly to Bahl.
“The most important thing we want to do is have as many students there as possible,” Oglesby said. “However, any donations will help our cause, so pay 15 bucks and get a shirt.”
Last year, with over 300 participants, Galaxy raised $4,000 for the Bazillion family. Oglesby said the club used the money to set up a college fund for the Bazillion’s daughter.
The first run, 27 years ago, took place to raise money for the family of Kirk Goodwin. Goodwin was a Galaxy member who was involved in a serious car accident, and after a few days in the hospital, passed away, Oglesby said.
“Since Goodwin’s death, the money Galaxy raises goes to a family in or from the ACU community who encounters unforeseen medical expenses,” Oglesby said.
Bobby Brown, sophomore psychology major from Buena Park, Calif., and historian of Galaxy, said he will be taking pictures and video of runners at the start and finish lines.
“I want to give everyone a nice photo finish,” Brown said.
Brown suggested spectators keep a close eye on the  first part of the race down Campus Court because runners tend to sprint the straightaway at the beginning and end.
“It’s pretty hilarious because you’ll see 40 or 50 Moonies sprinting out in front of everyone, and after about 60 yards, they’re gassed,” Brown said.
Brandon Schmermund, senior psychology major from El Campo and member of Galaxy, said while he was pledging, Galaxy members made sure the pledges knew how important the race was and how it helped families in need.
“It’s just a great time to come out, do a little exercise, hang out with friends and be a part of something bigger than anyone could ever imagine,” Schmermund said.
