On Saturday, April 26, Howard College hosted its first-ever campus-based 5K event — the Hawk Don’t Walk 5K, a community fun run designed to encourage outdoor activity and community connection. The event was spearheaded by the Howard College Adventure Club and held in conjunction with the Healthy, Wealthy, and Wise Community Health Fair, hosted by the Big Spring Area Chamber of Commerce at the Dorothy Garrett Coliseum.

The 5K saw an enthusiastic turnout, with 44 runners and 34 volunteers coming together to make the day a success. Participants of all ages enjoyed a scenic route through and around the college campus, and many expressed their appreciation for the opportunity to engage in a local, fitness-focused activity.

“This event was an idea that came directly from our student club members,” said Mick Sudano, staff sponsor for the Adventure Club. “They wanted to create something that brought people outdoors in a fun and different way while connecting with the community. It’s the first event of this type hosted on our campus, and we’d love to see it grow in the coming years.”

The run was not officially timed, but top finishers were recognized in a community highlight shared online. Many participants commented during and after the event that they enjoyed the route and were grateful for the welcoming, festive atmosphere. Several even committed to returning next year and expressed hope that the run would become an annual tradition.

The Adventure Club is already reviewing feedback and planning improvements for next year’s run, including exploring options for additional distances and off-pavement trails. The 2026 Hawk Don’t Walk 5K is scheduled for Saturday, April 25, alongside the community health fair.

To view photos from this year’s event, visit the official Howard College Flickr album here:
🔗 https://flic.kr/s/aHBqjCbKEy