Whether you’re a walker, runner, or cardio newbie, take your time, and enjoy the experience. That’s Larissa Brown’s advice for anyone participating in this year’s Kaiser Permanente Corporate Run/Walk. 

“I first participated in 2007 and have only missed one race since then,” said Brown, a contracting officer in the Office of Sponsored Programs. “I did my first race to get to know some of my fellow co-workers who were also participating. I keep coming back because I get to meet other members of the Tech community and make memories I can share with co-workers.”

Registration for this year’s race, which will be held on Sept. 12, is now open — and it’s not too early to sign up.

“One of the best benefits of participating is that Tech faculty and staff members who aren’t already members of the Campus Recreation Center (CRC) receive a free membership from July 11 until the race,” said Elisha Smith, fitness coordinator of G.I.T. FIT Programs and organizer of the Tech team.

Participants also receive Kaiser Permanente Run/Walk and Georgia Tech T-shirts and can attend an after-race gathering with food and beverages.

The winner of this year’s departmental challenge — the department with the most participants signed up — will receive a plaque and chair massages. There will be a winner for the department with fewer than 50 employees and for the department with more than 50 employees.

“All levels of walkers and runners are invited to join in,” Smith said. “And friends and family of faculty and staff members are also welcome.”

Georgia Tech Police Department Captain Randy Barrone has made it to four races.
“I like challenging myself to run faster each year,” he said. “My advice for others is to set a personal fitness goal and take advantage of the free CRC membership. And remember — don’t be nervous or intimidated. Just go at your own pace, and have fun!”

The cost is $27 per registrant before Aug. 16 ($32 after that date). Register at the website below and join the “Georgia Institute of Technology” team. Questions? Email Smith.