For the second year in a row, our “Race for Ability” is aimed at encouraging people of ALL ability levels to participate. With the aid of Student Accessibility Services, Recreational Services is able to ensure that individuals with disabilities have the resources they need to compete with everyone else.

Race Day Happenings

The race begins at the Student Recreation and Wellness Center (SRWC). The state-of-the-art facility offers plenty of parking, indoor registration, restrooms and locker room facilities.

The race, a loop course through Kent’s residential area, utilizes the Portage Hike & Bike Trail, letting participants enjoy the peacefulness of KSU’s surrounding community.

Participants can also take part in other Homecoming activities throughout the day, culminating in the Golden Flashes battle against the Bowling Green Falcons. Again this year, included in the cost of the 5k registration is one ticket to the football game! Additional tickets may be purchased at a rate of $10. For information on all of the Homecoming activities, contact the Kent State Alumni Association at 888-320-KENT or visit them online at www.ksualumni.org.

Special Olympics

The Department of Recreational Services and Student Accessibility Services are proud to announce that for every Walk & Roll registration, we will donate $5 to a benefit the Special Olympics.

Special Olympics contributes to the physical, social and psychological development of athletes with intellectual disabilities. Through successful experiences in sports, they gain confidence and build a positive self-image which carries over into the classroom, home, job and community.

Registration Details

The Bowman Cup 5k Race for Ability is open to everyone, including those with disabilities. Volunteers will be on hand to assist those with a disability through the course. When completing the registration form, please indicate if you will need assistance. A wheelchair division will also be offered. Please note the course utilizes a trail with limited access and that portions require a wheelchair to be capable of fitting through a 55” walkway. Only the visually impaired may have dogs in the race. Strollers are only permitted in the 1-Mile Walk & Roll.

The 1-Mile Walk & Roll, aimed at raising awareness for Special Olympics™, will be held prior to the 5k race. Please note that there are two separate fees for each event. Children under the age of 7 may participate in either event for free. 

Please Note: Youth under 18 must be accompanied by an adult in order to utilize the amenities within the SRWC. Youth who wish to participate in the race may do so (with parental authorization on the waiver), but are not permitted to use the facility without an adult present.

Cancellation Policy: Entry fees are non-refundable and non-transferable to another person, event or year. The Bowman Cup will be held rain or shine.

Race Amenities

• T-shirts for the first 300 participants
• Complimentary 5-minute massages
• Free buffet for all in attendance
• Raffle prizes with gifts from local vendors
• SRWC Open House

Awards

First, Second and Third place overall winners (male and female) will receive cash prizes:

• First Place - $75
• Second Place - $50
• Third Place - $25

First, Second and Third place awards will be given for the following age groups (male and female):

• Under 15
• 15 - 19
• 20 - 24
• 25 - 29
• 30 - 34
• 35 - 39
• 40 - 44
• 45 - 49
• 50 - 54
• 55 - 59
• 60 - 64
• 65 - 69
• 70+