Una's Human Performance Research Group To Host Bad Kitty Race Series

Apr. 08, 2015

Michelle Eubanks, UNA, at media@una.edu, 256.765.4392 or 256.606.2033

Bryan Rachal,

University Communications

FLORENCE, Ala. - The University of North Alabama Human Performance Research Group is hosting a series of races this weekend. The Bad Kitty Race series will consist of a 10-k half road and half trail race and a 5-k road-only run on Sat. April 11.

The course will start at the lion habitat and Harrison fountain, winding its way through campus, eventually leading runners through Wildwood Park. The goal is to raise funds to purchase a new state-of-the-art treadmill for UNA's Performance Lab. The new piece of machinery will serve as a learning tool, allowing UNA's exercise science students to conduct new studies. In addition, a portion of the proceeds from the race will go to the local Special Olympics Chapter.

Dr. Eric O'Neal, assistant professor in the Department of Health, Physical Education and Recreation at UNA, said the two races offer a variety of difficulty.

"Thecourse is short enough that novice trail runners can complete it, but it is technical enough that experienced trail runners willhave a blast trying to complete it quickly, O'Neal said. It's called theBad Kitty for a reason!"

Participants will be entered into a drawing for prizes, including two Eno hammocks donated by Alabama Outdoors. Entrants will also receive a digital camo race t-shirt with artwork completed by UNA student Drew Fisher, who is also a member of the Human Performance Research Group.

For more information or to register: http://badkitty10k.itsyourrace.com/Event.aspx?id=583or the Facebook group, Bad Kitty Race Series.