Jaguar 5K brings music, movement and community to Governors State University
Jaguar 5K returns October 25
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
(University Park, Illinois) - Whether running to set a personal record or taking a walk through Governors State University's (GovState) campus, get ready for the return of the annual Jaguar 5K on Sunday, October 25!
This year will feature something new, a special musical performance by the Suburban Youth Symphony Orchestra. Participants and spectators can enjoy live music while taking part in activities throughout the day.
Veronica Blair, the event organizer and Assistant to the Vice President of External Affairs/CEO of GSU Foundation, hopes the new addition will add to the day's excitement and foster community.
“We want the Jaguar 5K to be a day people look forward to, not just a race they run,” said Blair. “It is an opportunity to bring people together, introduce them to our beautiful campus, encourage healthy choices and create experiences that connect our university with the surrounding community.”
The event is sponsored by Blue Door Neighborhood Center, supporting GovState's commitment to expanding opportunities for health, wellness and community connection. This sponsorship helps make it possible to provide meaningful wellness experiences for students and residents throughout the region.
Like last year's event, participants can choose from the 5K walk or run, and 1-mile walk, while children can join the free Kids Dash. The 5K will be chip-timed, with awards recognizing top finishers in various age brackets.
Guests can also walk through the University's renowned Nathan Manilow Sculpture Park (theNate) with a self-guided tour using the Otocast app after the race.
Sunday, October 25
Check in: 9 a.m.
Race start: 10 a.m.
Location: Governors State University,
1 University Parkway, University Parkway, Illinois 60484
What else to expect:
- Warm-up with GovState's Physical Therapy team
- Free yoga
- Food trucks and refreshments
- Music, Kinesiology and student club activities
- Race-day photo opportunity with Jax the Jaguar
- Custom race-day T-shirt and snacks for participants
Interested in becoming a sponsor? Click here.
Questions? Contact Veronica Blair at jaguar5k@govst.edu.
Governors State University (GovState), recently voted the Best in the Southland, is a 4-year, comprehensive institution of higher education located in Chicago’s Southland. GovState serves nearly 4,500 students in four academic colleges: Arts and Sciences, Health and Human Services, Business, and Education and Human Development. Home to 2025-26 Men’s Basketball CCAC champions, GovState hosts 16 athletic teams.