In support of the Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) cause, an estimated 200 Greeks, Southeastern Alumni and other participants set off from North Campus to complete a 5K route throughout campus and the surrounding community.
Alpha Omicron Pi and Delta Tau Delta co-hosted the third annual MADD Dash 5K race which took place Saturday, Nov. 3 at 8 a.m. Participants were charged a fee of $20 which provided a T-shirt and refreshments. The MADD cause was chosen due to the loss of Alpha Omicron Pi member Beth Boudreaux who was killed by a drunk driver.
“I think raising awareness about drunk driving is crucial, especially on a college campus,” said Ashley Herman, philanthropy chair of Alpha Omicron Pi. “MADD is an amazing organization that helps so many people. We felt this was the perfect organization to support in honor of our sister Beth Boudreaux.”
While the race has been held for three years, this is the first year Delta Tau Delta decided to co-host with Alpha Omicron Pi.
“Alpha Omicron Pi actually approached me, and they needed more manpower, more help,” said Chris Simoneaux, philanthropy chair of Delta Tau Delta. “I think it’s definitely paid off because we have the entire race done. We’re by the corners, we have the water stations done, and those are all Delts. We have the manpower with the muscles putting together these tables and tents, making sure the house was clean and we have ice and everything.”
Racers took off at varied speeds with nearly half the group beginning at a run and a large number walking the entire route. First place winners for both men and women were rewarded with a gift card.
Cross country veteran Joseph LeGrange, junior communications major, ran the route and finished in first place for the men with a time of 16 minutes and 57 seconds.
“I was invited on Facebook, and it’s after cross country season. I thought it would be a good race to keep my training up,” said LeGrange. “It depends on who the competition is on whether I win or not. I don’t want to take it out as a full race, but if someone pushes it, I will.”
Emily Pevey, a junior kinesiology major and member of the cross country team, won first for the women with a time of 21 minutes and 50 seconds.
“I wasn’t really expecting anything, I was just coming out to run and have fun. It was a good experience,” said Pevey when asked whether she had expected to win. “My sorority is helping put it on. It’s for a cousin of mine, Beth Boudreaux, who passed away a few years ago. It’s just a really good cause, and I love to run.”
Following the race, a variety of refreshments were provided as well as a disk jockey.
Overall, participants enjoyed themselves and were happy to support a noble cause.
“It’s for a great cause. You know, supporting Mothers Against Drunk Driving,” said MJ Ahmad, Southeastern alumnus. “I just want to support the cause and get the community to come together.”