Run with a Researcher at the UO
EUGENE, Ore. - The University of Oregon is known for running and for research.
Now campus leaders are inviting runners to take part in both for the duration of the Olympic Trials in Eugene.
Friday marked the first ever Run with a Researcher in front of the student recreation center.
Organizers say the goal is to enjoy a conversational trot through campus while university experts share their passion for cutting-edge research.
"I love to run and I love science," said participant Jen Phillips. "This is a perfect fusion of the two things that I love."
The topics span from green chemistry to evolutionary biology to crop circles, while also showing off Eugene's best known running trails.
"It's just an amazing breadth of every day discovery here at the University of Oregon," said Jim Hutchison, a Professor of Chemistry. "It parallels all the great stuff that's happening in sports, so what a great combination."
Runners choose from three routes ranging from a flat 5k to a challenging 4.5 miler that travels to Pre's Rock off Skyline Boulevard in Eugene.
"All skill levels are welcome, "said Bill Cresko, a Professor of Biology at the school. "As long as you have the ability to get up and get moving you can be a runner."
The event is free of charge.
Participants also receive a free t-shirt and a day pass to use the recreation center's gym and showers.
Run with a Researcher runs from July 1st-3rd and 6th-10th at 8 a.m. at the UO Student Recreation Center, 1320 E. 15th Ave. Eugene, OR.
No sign up is necessary.
Scavenger Hunt
The University is also hosting a social media scavenger hunt each day of the trials.
The @UOregon Instagram page will post a clue of a campus landmark.
Find the landmark, take a selfie and tag your post #ThrowYourO.
They will give away a number of t-shirts also handed out to participants of the Run with a Researcher event.
