Gearing up for the Crimson Classic

It’s that time of year again; lace up those running shoes for the sixth annual Crimson Classic. The fun run and walk, taking place at 3 p.m. this Thursday, has quickly become a popular tradition that kicks off the new academic year. This year’s 2.62-mile run and 1.31-mile walk is designed to bring together students, faculty and staff by promoting well-being.

“At the University of Denver, we truly believe that an individual’s wellbeing is their greatest asset in both their work and personal lives,” says Laura Maresca, vice chancellor for human resources and inclusive community. “The Crimson Classic is a great way to bring our entire DU community together while also promoting the idea of live well, work well and DU well — all aspects of well-being that we promote on campus.”

More than 700 people have participated in the event in each of the past two years. The Crimson Classic serves as an opportunity for employees to learn more about well@du. The University’s wellness initiative provides programming to encourage employees to increase the knowledge of their health status and achieve health goals.

“We still have some employees who do not take advantage of the benefits offered through the wellness incentive program,” Maresca says. “Besides giving folks the opportunity to save money on their health insurance costs, we offer multiple activities each week geared toward helping employees thrive physically, mentally and emotionally.”

Some of the different activities coincide with Crimson Classic day. At 8:30 a.m. there will be Tai Chi on Carnegie Green, followed by a grab-and-go healthy breakfast. A mindfulness education session is scheduled for 10:30 a.m., also on Carnegie Green. And, for the entire day, faculty and staff can take advantage of private ergonomic evaluation sessions.

Faculty and staff who participate in the wellmetrics portal will receive 500 points for completing the Crimson Classic. Employees who volunteer for the run/walk will receive 200 points. Employees who work in other regions of the country can also earn 500 points by walking in their cities and taking a photo of themselves in DU gear.

Everyone is encouraged to pick-up their Crimson Classic shirt on Tuesday from 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. at Carnegie Green or Wednesday from 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. at the Ritchie Center and then wear it all day on Thursday to show support for DU and to celebrate wellness. Please click here for more schedule information and to see this year’s course map.