Big Ten Network’s Ninth Annual Big 10K Goes Virtual

The Big Ten Network’s ninth annual Big 10K is transitioning to a virtual event in 2020, giving walkers and runners the opportunity to commemorate the conference and take part in a 5K or 10K race on Sunday, July 26, from wherever they live.

Registration is now open at www.btnbig10k.com, where racers can sign up for a school-specific shirt, a Big Ten-branded running buff/headband, race bib and finisher’s certificate for just $20.

Participants will also have access to a BTN Big 10K Spotify playlist, including school fight songs and other music systematized for training or racing purposes.

The walkers and runners will be able to race through their neighborhoods, local parks, or wherever they might desire. They can upload their results on the website, share photos of their journey and download a finishers’ certificate through Saturday, Aug. 1.

“This is an exciting opportunity for the Big Ten community to join together and show support for this historic event,” said Big Ten Commissioner Kevin Warren. “I am truly looking forward to participating in my first BTN Big 10K this year and I hope that our tremendous alumni and fans will join me in an effort to stay healthy, support a charitable cause and represent their favorite Big Ten school.

“College sports have long offered a positive outlet to society, and while we all look forward to a day when that will be possible again, we know this race will bring our entire Big Ten family together with students, coaches, administrators, alumni and fans participating from around the globe.”

BTN and the Big Ten will be supporting three charities for the virtual 10k, including longtime partners ALIVE Rescue, and Special Olympics Chicago, in addition to Feeding America for the 2020 event. Fans will have an option to donate directly to any of the three designated charities when they sign up.

Registration is open at www.btnbig10k.com and will continue through Friday, July 10. Participants will receive race packets prior to race day and will also receive a virtual sponsor goodie bag featuring unique offers for BTN Big 10K racers. If walkers or runners cannot compete on race day, they will still be able to take part in the virtual race for the following week.

“For the first time, Big Ten fans across the country and world will be able to participate in the BTN Big 10K no matter where they live,” said BTN president Francois McGillicuddy. “We look forward to the day when we will once again bring thousands of people together in Chicago, but we’re also proud to demonstrate how the Big Ten community showcases togetherness, even while walking and racing apart. We encourage everyone to join us on July 26 and represent their favorite Big Ten school in the BTN Big 10K.”

Participants are encouraged to send and receive updates through the BTN Big 10K Facebook group.

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