Victor E. Bull is saving his energy for the big day. The 24th annual Linda Yalem Safety Run will be held on Sept. 29 on the North Campus, and the Bulls’ mascot is relieved he only has to cheer from the sidelines this year.

The race, which begins at 9:30 a.m. at Alumni Arena, involves a 5k run past Lake LaSalle and around the Ellicott Complex and the academic spine.

The event, which promotes safety awareness on campus and in the community, is held in honor of Linda Yalem, a UB student who was raped and murdered in September 1990 on the Amherst bike path along the north edge of campus while training for the New York City Marathon. The event’s slogan is “Don’t Go It Alone.”

The event, one of UB’s most enduring traditions, is an official qualifying race for the Buffalo News Runner of the Year series, and is a U.S.A. Track and Field-certified event.  The race is also open to joggers and walkers.

The kid’s dash will be held at 10:15 a.m. at Coventry Loop, also on the North Campus, for children ages 5-10. Participants will have the opportunity to take photos with Victor E. Bull.

The registration fee covers race participation, time chip and number, and finish line and results services. Participants receive a free race memento and access to an outdoor post-race party that includes food and entertainment. Race proceeds support safety awareness and rape prevention programs at UB.

Officials ask that participants register online. The fee to participate is $23 for the public and $18 for UB students if registering before Sept. 25. On-site registration is $25 for the public and $20 for students. 

Race winners receive prizes in various categories and all participants are eligible for prize raffles.

For more details or to register online, visit the Linda Yalem Safety Run website.