Hawk Trot participants race for Class of 2019

Fundraisers are never-ending among RWU clubs and organizations. On the morning of Nov. 4, the Class of 2019 sponsored the Hawk Trot, a color run that students of all years could participate in. Tickets were $10 per person and available for purchase at table times in Commons or online before the event.

All of the proceeds from the event are directed toward the senior class’ Commencement Ball. Garrett Alpaugh, vice president of the Junior Class Cabinet, expressed that Hawk Trot is a huge event that funds from all four years of fundraising are meant for. Junior Emily Rizzo, secretary of the Cabinet, thought that the race would be a good fundraising idea because it is something different and a popular concept in today’s society.

“Color runs draw crowds and get people pumped,” Rizzo said.

While the run was initially supposed to take place on Oct. 14, it was unfortunately rained out. According to Rizzo, the Trot was originally supposed to kick off Spirit Week, which explains the gear with Roger Williams colors that runners were given. Participants were provided with blue sunglasses and white t-shirts with blue bows to wear during the race.

The course began in front of the Sailing Center on the Shell Path, leading to Willow, in front of Commons, and back to the starting line. Color stations were located at each of these spots, where students were doused with powder of all different colors, such as pink, yellow, and green.

The first runner to cross the finish line, sophomore Michael Bell, said that he enjoyed this type of fundraiser because he is a member of the Triathlon Team and enjoys racing.

Bailee Maston, a freshman participant in the run, said that “this was a good fundraiser because it is something different and gives people a chance to enjoy the outdoors.”

The race was not competitive, as there were no distinguished winners or prizes to be given out. The event was focused on raising money and allowing students to engage in a joyful and different experience. Rizzo described the race as “more for color than competition.”

Bananas and water bottles awaited returning racers, along with encouraging words from the coordinators of the event. All of the participants were covered in colorful powder one last time as they enjoyed their successful crossings of the finish line.