End Zone deadline nears

As this year’s participants cross the finish line for the Jill Behrman Run for the End Zone, not only will they have bragging rights, but they will also be a part of a record-breaking event.

Over 70 teams have now registered for the 5K run/walk, up from last year’s 37. Much of the credit for the number of participants goes to the newly formed student steering committee, whose goal this year is to get all of the IU community involved.

“We extended the October 1st team registration deadline to this Friday at 5 p.m. after this year’s overwhelming response,” said Christine Geary, director of programming and research at Campus Recreational Sports. “It’s very exciting.”

Jill Behrman was an IU student and employee of Campus Recreational Sports. She went missing in May 2000 after going for a bike ride alone, and after three years,  her remains were found in Morgan County.

In light of the tragedy, the Jill Behrman 5K Run/Walk was created nine years ago. Teams of at least five members participate in the event with hopes of winning one of the several divisions, including largest community school, community business, IU student organization, IU department and IU greek team.

Though the team deadline is Friday, teams can still register online and on-site at Recreational Sports until Oct. 13, but they will not be counted for one of the division prizes. Individuals who want to register after Oct. 13 will have the opportunity to sign up on the day of the event.

“The winner is determined solely on the number of participants,” Geary said. “It’s a great way for people to come together, have a good time and support a great cause.”

Senior Anne McElherne is the lead graphic designer and residence hall coordinator for the race. McElherne works at Campus Recreational Sports and was approached this summer to be part of the steering committee.

“We changed the campaign. There are new logos, promotional materials and a focus on getting all groups of IU,” McElherne said. “It’s nice knowing that all of the hard work has been paying off.”

Since the first race, more than $100,000 has been raised. Proceeds benefit two
causes: Jill’s House Inc. and the Jill Behrman Emerging Leader Scholarship. Jill’s House opened this past July and is already near capacity with a waiting list. Jill’s House is a home-like facility where patients who are undergoing outpatient cancer treatments at the Midwest Proton Radiotherapy Institute in Bloomington can temporarily stay. The MPRI treats cancer patients through proton therapy without damaging surrounding tissue.

Marilyn Behrman, Jill’s mother, is a member of the Board of Directors of Jill’s House and subject matter expert at the IU Foundation. She never imagined the impact Jill’s House would have on its residents and the Bloomington community.

“It’s all about the good and the future,” said Behrman. “(Jill) would be amazed.”
Behrman emphasized the importance of handing the reins to students after faculty, staff and community members have held them for so long.

The race takes place Oct. 18 and will feature live entertainment and opening remarks from Jane Hoeppner, wife of the late coach Terry Hoeppner. For more information on the race, visit www.iurecsports.org/jbrez.

“The reason why the event resonates with so many people is because of Jill’s story. She was one of our own and in some capacity cancer touches everyone,” Geary said.