The third annual Wolfie Dash 5K Run/Walk concluded Stony Brook University's Homecoming weekend on October 26, drawing 525 participants to the event. The race began and ended in front of the Stony Brook Union and included members from across the university community, such as students, faculty, staff, alumni, and even President Andrea Goldsmith.
Organizers noted a record number of registrants for this year's event. Cathrine Duffy, director of Stony Brook’s Healthier U program, commented on the atmosphere: “The energy for this year’s Wolfie Dash was electric. To see so many faculty, staff, students, alumni and their families running together and celebrating afterwards was so incredible. It keeps growing every year, and we’re thrilled that it’s become one of our newest campus traditions.”
Medals were given to the first 300 finishers along with other prizes and giveaways. Nichole Gladky highlighted the value of these events for campus unity: “These kinds of events are so important for creating a cohesive Stony Brook University. It’s a lighthearted and fun way to bring students, staff, faculty, and the local community together. I particularly enjoyed getting to say hello to President Goldsmith and my students in a non-work related, community atmosphere.”
Participants described the event as having a block party feel that brought out widespread support from across campus. Lauren Candela shared her personal experience: “This year, crossing the finish line was incredible, but the most special part was sharing that moment live on FaceTime with my two young daughters, ages 7 and 4. They watched me train for months, and in that moment, I wasn’t just a mom in the trenches; I felt like I achieved something just for me. Seeing and hearing their excitement, knowing I set a goal and accomplished it, was everything.”
Several runners credited HealthierU’s Couch to 5K program with helping them prepare for the race. Lori Kie said: “I’m so grateful to Cathrine Duffy and the welcoming group of joggers she brings together, most of whom I’d never met before. Thanks to them, I’m already looking forward to the spring’s Seawolf Shuffle.”
Jonathan Castoro appreciated seeing new parts of campus through his participation: “Being new to SBU, I got to see parts of the campus I’ve never seen before; it was so nice to see it from a different perspective. We spend so much time in offices and classrooms so seeing it like this was special.”