THON kicked off its Dream Forward campaign on Sunday with the annual THON 5K. Members of the Penn State community came together to run or walk in this 3.1-mile race across Penn State’s gorgeous campus.

As soon as the participants checked in, they were greeted with some wonderful THON-inspired decorations to celebrate this exciting day!

Before the start of the 5K, there were various family-friendly activities in front of the Bryce Jordan Center.

Some of these activities included on-stage features from Four Diamonds families, THON committee members, and some of Penn State’s own student-athletes and pep! There were pre-race stretches, a limbo contest, kids vs. athletes events, and a whole pep rally featuring the one and only Nittany Lion.

Minutes before the 5K officially began, the kids’ race took place right on the 5K track.

Slowly but surely, everyone started to make their way to the front as the start of the race grew closer.

And off we go! The race began at 11 a.m., with a giant crowd of students, faculty, families, and community members all starting their journey for an amazing cause.

Just 17 minutes after the start of the 5K, the first runner crossed the finish line!

As runners and walkers made their way to the end of the route, there were lines of fans cheering them on. Way to go, everyone!

Dream Forward officially starts now! Just 116 days until we dance, folks!