The men of Galaxy will put on the 31st annual Kirk Goodwin Memorial Run 5K and the Run the West half marathon, this Saturday.

The run will begin on ACU’s campus and go around the Abilene area, varying on route for both types of races. Individuals can run the 5K for $20 and the Run the West half marathon for $80.

Aaron Brooks, senior marking major from Burleson and member of Galaxy is a race director this year and has been for the past three years.

“Through a collective effort this year, we really tried to make sure that we covered costs before we marketed to the runners,” Brooks said. “Because of that, we have had people and sponsors from all walks of life come together to make KGR and the half-marathon a reality this year. In the beginning our financial goal was to raise $20,000 so that we could give back even more after covering race costs. We’re expecting to double what we brought in last year.”

The race has taken place each year in memory of Kirk Goodwin, former ACU student, track team member and Galaxy member, who was killed in a car accident in 1984.

“I hope that this event, that has changed so many lives over the past 31 years, will continue to grow in strength and awareness throughout Texas,” Brooks said. “Families will always have the burdens of medical costs, and I know that KGR can continue to grow and bless those families over the years.”

The race will benefit different causes in the Abilene community. This year the race partnered with Medical Care Missions, a nonprofit that helps families in the Abilene community.

Brady Kile, senior marketing major from Fort Worth, is also a race director and has been working on the event and expand the race into the 5K.

“If one person runs the 5K, we can use that registration money to essentially give a doctor’s visit to someone that can’t afford it,” Kile said. “A little goes a long way.”

Students and members of the Abilene community are still encouraged to sign up now online at kirkgoodwinrun.com or at ACU on the day of the race.