The race, which is sponsored by Alpha Upsilon, is held to raise funds for the Hayes Foundation. Created in memory of Brother Michael Hayes, the Hayes Foundation provides scholarships to Miami University students who are attending school while battling life threatening illnesses. The funds raised by the program go toward services such as transportation to class, doctors appointments, groceries, tutoring and other assistance.

The race kicked off at noon from Uptown Park, and took a 5 kilometer loop around Miami's campus. Some students competed for medalist honors, while others walked the loop with friends. Following the race, restaurant gift cards, blankets and taxi coupons were auctioned off to raise additional funds.

VPCS Megan Drown headed the Hayes Race committee and was thrilled with the results of this year's race. "I was very pleased with the results. It was a beautiful sunny day, and I had a lot more people run the race than I expected," commented Drown. "My only wish is that next year we will be able to make this better known to the entire campus rather than just our chapter, but nonetheless, there was a great turnout."

This year's race brought in more than $6,000 for the Hayes Foundation, and Drown and her brothers are optimistic about the growth of the non-profit in the future.

"My hope for the future of the Hayes Foundation is that the money will be more readily available to students in need," adds Drown. "I have talked to Michael's father on multiple occasions, and more than anything he wants to locate the students in need on campus (because we know the need is out there), and provide them financial services for their health care expenses."


Alpha Upsilon brothers participate in the Hayes Race 5k with members of the Cincinnati Alumni Chapter.

By: Emily Leach, Miami-Ohio