Runway 5K reaches new heights

And they’re off! On August 27 The Ohio State University Airport hosted a record-setting Don Scott Trot: 5K on the Runway with 471 registrants. The race raised over $19,000 towards flight education scholarships for advanced training at Ohio State.

“We couldn’t have asked for a more perfect day for a 5K tour of the OSU Airport,” said Airport Director Adam Wolf. “It’s a joy to invite the public onto the field to get a glimpse of what’s being accomplished each and every day.”

“We are excited that the word of this event is spreading and we were able to accommodate a record number of registrations, which supported our fundraiser for student scholarships.”

Multiple students are set to receive scholarships, which will be announced in the coming days.

Brandon Mann, director of Flight Education is grateful the proceeds from the 5K will help support flight education students. “Thanks to the generosity of our sponsors, we will be able to award four student scholarships to be used towards obtaining the multiengine rating,” he said. “This rating is essential for our students to succeed in their future aviation endeavors.”

Advanced flight training utilizes the Ohio State aircraft fleet’s new Piper Seminole, which fittingly led the 5K as the pace vehicle.

University mascot Brutus Buckeye excitedly cheered on participants as they zigzagged through the course on the airport’s runways and taxiways, areas usually reserved only for aircraft and support vehicles. In fact, a business jet marked the mid-race water station and a large runway snow broom delineated one turning point.

At the end of the race, each finisher received a commemorative cork-backed medal that doubles as a drink coaster. Attendees enjoyed taking photos with Ohio State training aircraft, observing the airside view of the terminal and the opportunity to be inside a hangar.

Silver-level race sponsors, who each donated $3,000, were Crawford, Murphy & Tilly; FlightSafety International; Spartan Air; and Worthington Industries. In addition, event sponsor Ohio State Aviation Alumni Association provided post-race refreshments.

“We already have new ideas how to further make this event more unique and exciting than any other 5K in central Ohio,” said Wolf. “For next time, we plan to open registrations for 600 participants to trot with us on the runway. Until then, O-H…!”

Photos from the event may be viewed here. Participants seeking results may check runsignup.com/donscotttrot.

by Holly Henley, communications specialist