Hap Hudson Homecoming Race at Mississippi College Steps Up Fitness Goals

Coach Hap Hudson Homecoming 5K

A legendary Mississippi College coach, Joel “Hap” Hudson inspired many runners for decades.

A longtime Clinton resident, Hudson has a ton of admirers in metro Jackson and across the Magnolia State.

The 8^th annual Coach Hap Hudson Homecoming 5K Run/Walk at Mississippi College is named in his honor.

Set for October 24, the race will take participants through the MC campus and give them a good look at  Olde Towne businesses and nearby neighborhoods. Starting at 8 a.m. that Saturday at Cockroft Hall, the two-hour event ends at the Robinson-Hale Stadium track.

Sponsored by the MC Department of Kinesiology, last year’s Homecoming race attracted 151 participants. Organizers are hopeful of a better turnout this year.

Funds generated will go towards a good cause. Money raised will boost the Hap Hudson Endowed Kinesiology Award. It is a scholarship for kinesiology students. Funds will also go to help MC kinesiology students attend academic conferences.

The entry fee is $20 in advance and $25 during race day. Registration starts at 6:30 a.m. that Saturday.

The Hap Hudson road race fits in well with Mississippi College strengthening wellness programs on the Clinton campus this fall.

Race director Suzanne McDonough is always delighted to see big crowds participate, and step up their fitness levels.

“It is one of the highlights of my academic year,” says McDonough, an MC kinesiology professor. The event brings together friends, family and students to run competitively, get some exercise and have a little fun, said the Kosciusko native.

Participants will receive race T-shirts. Medals will be awarded to the top three winners in age group categories. Racers will also get snacks to eat. Bagels and fruit will be served after the race.

Register online at http://www.mc.edu/academics/departments/kinesiology/  For more information, call 601-940-8186 or 601-925-3348 or email Suzanne McDonough at smcdonou@mc.edu