On Wednesday, June 3, faculty, staff and students from across the University of Washington and UW Medicine laced up their shoes, stepped outside and celebrated Global Running Day together.
Whether participants walked, jogged, ran, rolled or biked, the goal was simple: move your body, connect with the UW community and help us collectively reach 2,026 miles.
And once again, Huskies delivered.
A total of 336 members of the UW community registered to participate in this year’s #RunTheUW celebration. Participants represented campuses, clinics, departments and work locations across the region, proving that even when we’re not in the same place, we’re still one UW community.
Miles, movement and community
Participants completed their miles in all kinds of ways.
Some squeezed in a sunrise run before work. Others walked with colleagues during the day, explored neighborhood trails with family members, pushed strollers, logged miles with their dogs or used the event as motivation to restart a fitness routine.
More than 220 participants logged their mileage and shared stories from the day, highlighting what makes Global Running Day special—not competition, but connection.
Many participants described feeling energized, refreshed and accomplished after getting their miles in. Others celebrated personal milestones, from completing their first 5K to returning to running after injury, while some simply appreciated the opportunity to spend time outdoors and connect with colleagues.
Moments that inspired us
Throughout the day, participants shared reflections that captured the spirit of the event:
“There will be a day when I can’t do this. That day is not today.” — Kenneth Hines, UW Bothell
“I felt thankful for a healthy body.” — Lauren Freligh, UW Medicine
“Good run with great company! Able to enjoy the Seattle scenery with a colleague.” — Nelly Nicklason, Washington National Primate Research Center
“Sharing a running day with my coworkers and the world was very special.” — Aigul Chichian, UW Medicine Northwest Hospital
“Connected, I walked with a friend.” — Rachel Moore, School of Medicine
These moments remind us that wellness looks different for everyone. Sometimes it’s a long training run. Sometimes it’s a walk with a coworker. Sometimes it’s simply making time to move.
Thank you for showing up
Thank you to the 336 participants who registered for this year’s event and to everyone who shared photos, mileage and encouragement throughout the day.
Global Running Day is a reminder that every mile counts. When we move together as a community, we can inspire one another to prioritize health, well-being and connection.
We loved seeing your routes, running groups, four-legged training partners and favorite views from across Washington and beyond.
Until next year, keep moving, Huskies. #RunTheUW
Thank you to BECU, Decathlon, Husky Mobile and TIAA for sponsoring The Whole U!