UMass Dining to Host 11th Annual 5K Dash and Dine to Benefit the Amherst Survival Center

University of Massachusetts Dining Services will host its 11th annual “UMass 5K Dash and Dine” on campus at 9 a.m. Saturday, April 9, after a two-year hiatus. The goal of the event is to promote health and wellness at UMass Amherst while raising funds for The Amherst Survival Center (ASC). In total, UMass Dining has raised over $50,000 for the Amherst Survival Center.

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The 5K features a USA Track and Field (USATF)-certified course to runners, walkers and wheelchair participants. When race participants are finished, all are welcome to have lunch at the award-winning dining commons on campus.

“It’s fantastic to see the UMass community come together for such a great cause.  We’re big believers in building community through food and promoting health and wellness, and this event is another shining example of this. I’m extremely proud of our team and what we are able to accomplish,” said Ken Toong, executive director of UMass Amherst Auxiliary Enterprises.

The race fee is $10 for all UMass and Five College students, $15 for UMass Amherst faculty and staff, and $20 for the general public. Children 8 years and under may participate for free. The race fee includes registration and a complimentary meal at the Hampshire or Berkshire Dining Commons. Online registration ends at midnight on April 6. Walk-up registration is available on the day of the race.

To register for the event or make a donation, please visit RunUMass.com.

Schedule of events:

• 9 a.m. – Check-in at The Southwest Horseshoe
• 10 a.m. – Fun Run for children 8 years old and under
• 11 a.m. – Race begins
• 11:30 a.m. – Award ceremony
• Noon – Lunch at Hampshire or Berkshire Dining Commons

“We are so excited to see Dash and Dine return! This event is such a perfect fundraiser for the Center,” said Amherst Survival Center Executive Director Lev Ben-Ezra. “It is all about community, everyone pitching in, and world-class cooking. A huge thank you to everyone who makes it possible and comes out to join. See you there!”

UMass Dining is the largest collegiate dining program in America and is a recognized leader among college dining programs because of its focus on quality ingredients and meals, customer service, student health and wellness, customization options, an appreciation of global influences and modern eating trends, and creating community on campus. Its mission is to support and improve the student experience at UMass Amherst.

Media are invited to attend. If interested or have questions regarding the event, contact Meghan Rothschild at Meghan@chikmedia.us or 413-218-4994.