Every year since 2004, it has happened.  Starting with a mere 12 participants and growing to an exponential 5,500 participants last year, the Krispy Kreme Challenge has quickly become one of Raleigh’s most talked about traditions.  If you’ve never heard of this quirky race, then you’re in for a real treat, literally. 

The challenge starts at the NC State University Belltower, where participants will gather and then run two miles to the Krispy Kreme store on Peace Street.  It is here that runners are treated to a full dozen doughnuts, which they must completely consume before running the two-mile trek back to the Belltower in order to finish the challenge.  This is not your average annual charity race.

The 2011 Krispy Kreme Challenge is on February 5th at 8:30 a.m.  The challenge is expected to draw 7,500 runners this year, from beginners who prefer to walk to serious competitors who train for the competition.  If you’ve never participated in this challenge and would like to be a contender, then you might want to get a little practice in now.

Not big on running?  Don’t think you can down a dozen doughnuts and keep them down?  No worries.  There are three ways to support the challenge’s charity, The NC Children’s Hospital.  Participants can register as a challenger, meaning they must eat all of the doughnuts and complete the race; a casual runner, meaning they can take their time and eat as many doughnuts as they like; or a supporter, meaning they do not run or get doughnuts but are there for support of those who do.

 This event is a great way to help out a charity, meet new people, get a little exercise and come home with some delicious doughnuts (whether they’re in your stomach or in the box).  Register today and experience one of Raleigh’s fastest-growing traditions.