Our Story

 

A Tradition Begins

The Krispy Kreme Challenge started in December 2004 as a dare among a few Park Scholars and their friends, all NC State undergraduates. Sophomore Ben Gaddy took home bragging rights that afternoon, running the race in 34 minutes and 27 seconds. After receiving positive coverage from local and national media, Krispy Kreme Challenge was labeled as:

  1. #85 on the "102 More Things You Gotta Do Before You Graduate" by Sports Illustrated
  2. "#1 Thing to Do Before You Graduate." by N.C. State Student Government
  3. One of Denise Malan’s The Runner's Bucket List: 200 Races to Run Before You Die

Organizers decided to publicize the Krispy Kreme Challenge and turn it into something that would not only be an event to bring together people from all over the country but also to benefit an important cause along the way.  It was no surprise when organizers selected The UNC Children's Hospital as the most deserving beneficiary of this ultimate collegiate challenge.