Participants are all smiles at 2017 Triton 5K kickoff. Photos by Erik Jepsen/UC San Diego Publications

Triton 5K Online Registration Closes April 12

“UC San Diego’s Triton 5K is a wonderful way to explore our beautiful campus, while raising scholarship funds for our undergraduate students who will go on to become the innovators and changemakers of the future,” said Chancellor Pradeep K. Khosla. “Supporting scholarships is one of the greatest gifts a person can give because it is a gift of boundless opportunity.”

A Triton-in-Training celebrates finishing the Junior Triton Run.

On April 15, an expected crowd of about 4,000 UC San Diego students, faculty, staff and alumni—as well as San Diego community members—will come together on campus to benefit student scholarships at the 22^nd annual Triton 5K & Festival. The Triton 5K was established in 1996 by former UC San Diego Chancellor Robert C. Dynes as the Chancellor’s Challenge 5K Run/Walk for Scholars. Over two decades and a name change later, the Triton 5K has raised more than $3.8 million in scholarships, benefitting more than 1,000 students and giving them the opportunity to pursue higher education here at UC San Diego. Last year, Triton 5K participants raised over $240,000 to benefit student scholarships.

Since money was an issue for Alexandria Holl when applying for college, she credits a UC San Diego scholarship for helping her achieve her academic goals. The clinical psychology major, who will graduate in 2020, is interested in pursuing a doctorate. “I hope not only to be a practicing psychologist, but to work with those in countries that have yet to recognize persons with mental illnesses and afflictions,” she said.

The Triton 5K would be nothing without its participants and the teams that are formed for race day. One of the largest department teams last year was the GPS Globetrotters led by David Robertson, director of student career services at UC San Diego’s School of Global Policy and Strategy—121 GPS participants ran in the race. As an avid runner and involved member of the campus community, Robertson enjoys combining both passions by participating in the event.

“Community is very important to me, so I am always looking for opportunities to bring people together,” said Robertson. “By having more scholarships available to students who are unable to pay for college, we can allow more students to be able to go to college and earn their degree. That is one of the greatest investments for the future and it must be made a priority.”

The Triton 5K will begin at 9 a.m., starting in front of the Spanos Athletic Training Facility at North Point Lane. The scenic 3.1-mile USATF-sanctioned course will take participants through towering eucalyptus groves and past iconic installations from the Stuart Collection, such as the colorful Sun God statue. Participants are invited to run, walk, or stroll the course (stroller and pet-friendly). Runners will be organized in waves, so everyone will be able to participate at their own pace.

Children are welcome to participate as well, with the Junior Triton Run taking place after the Triton 5K. There will be a kid-friendly mini course at the Triton Track and Field Stadium. Every “Triton-in-Training” will receive a medal and gear bag for participating.

Chancellor Pradeep K. Khosla poses with Vice Chancellor of Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Becky Petitt and King Triton

But it’s not all run and no play for race participants. After the race, the Triton 5K festival will feature live music and food from local vendors. To cool off, guests can visit the beer garden hosted by Rough Draft Brewery, founded by UC San Diego alumnus Jeff Silver ’94. An interactive Fun Zone complete with a bouncy house for kids will round out the event.

Participation in the Triton 5K not only supports students, but is a fun way to get to know the UC campus and community. Online registration closes on April 12. Fees for the event are: $40 for the UC San Diego community (faculty, staff, alumni and parents of current students); $50 for the general public; $45 for active or veteran military personnel, and $15 for middle, high school or college students. Day-of registration is subject to availability with an increase in pricing.

FOX 5 San Diego will be partnering with UC San Diego to provide media coverage for this important campus and community event. Race proceeds support student scholarships and the Campaign for UC San Diego, our comprehensive fundraising effort to transform the student experience, our campus and ultimately the way humanity approaches problems and develops solutions. Run, walk or stroll in support of tomorrow’s changemakers.