Each year, as Cal Poly freshmen participate in Week of Welcome (WOW), they are educated on the dangers of binge drinking with the legacy of Carson Starkey. Starkey was a freshman at Cal Poly in 2008 and tragically passed away from alcohol poisoning following a fraternity hazing incident. In his honor, Associated Students, Inc. (ASI) will host the fifth annual Mustang Mile, a 5K race open to all students.
“With the story of Carson, it started with greek life,” said Brayden Antonio, ASI special events student assistant and business administration freshman. “The organization they created is ‘Aware Awake Alive.’ With this event, we wanted to pair the pillars of the Mustang Way with the values of ‘Aware Awake Alive,’ and advocate being an active bystander and being a part of the Mustang Family. So we came up with an event that brings that all together, and that’s why we came up with the Mustang Mile.”
The Mustang Mile, which aims to encourage awareness, community and healthy activities among students, is Thursday, May 12, at 6:30 p.m. at the Cal Poly Recreation Center.
Students may dress up in themed costumes, race in the 5K around campus and attend a festival after the race. The festival will have educational booths, food and live music. Prizes will be given out to the winners of the race and for creative costumes, which are highly encouraged.
Participants may sign up for $12 on the ASI website.