DENVER-- A week before the Broncos open their season at home against the Colts on "Sunday Night Football," fans will be the ones running out of the tunnel at Sports Authority Field at Mile High.
The Broncos, BKB, Ltd., Hallucination Sports and title sponsor Sports Authority announced Wednesday that the Back to Football timed 7K -- for fans, running enthusiasts and everyone in between -- will be August 31 at 9 a.m. at the team's stadium.
The event is sponsored by Sports Authority, Rocky Mountain Popcorn, Maxx Sunglasses, Elements Massage and 9News and benefits the National Sports Center for the Disabled (NSCD). Fans will run part of the event through the Sloan's Lake neighborhood and finish on the 50-yard line of Sports Authority Field at Mile High.
As part of their registration fee, runners are invited to participate in an exclusive behind-the-scenes stadium run, including entrance into the stadium bowl through the same tunnel the Broncos run through on gamedays. A free "fun run" for children under the age of 10 will take place after the event, giving young Broncos fans an opportunity to run through the same tunnel.
All participants will receive an official race shirt and finishers medal, as well as an invitation to a post-race party with live entertainment, food and beverages in the Mile High Mountain Village, located inside the stadium between Gates 4 and 5.
"Denver bleeds orange and blue and there is a passion for the Broncos that goes beyond gamedays," said Sandy Young, Senior Marketing Manager for the Denver Broncos. "This city also boasts a very active running community which makes it very exciting to create a fun annual event that celebrates both.
"Our hope is that families of all ages will come together to participate and make it a yearly event to kick off the fall football season."
Other NFL teams will hold similar races in their respective cities. Details and race dates can be found at www.NFLrunseries.com.
"Uniquely different from all other running events, this one puts you right on the 50-yard line at Sports Authority Field at Mile High," said Creigh Kelley, Colorado Distance Hall of Fame and National Running USA Hall of Champions member. "Every Broncos fan, young and old, needs to be on board for this unique experience!"
"We are very thankful to be the beneficiary of this fantastic event," said Becky Zimmermann, president and CEO of the NSCD. "The funds raised at this event will help support our numerous summer and winter programs, making a positive impact for the more than 3,000 adults and children with disabilities who participate in our programs throughout the year."
To register or learn more about the Back to Football 7K, please visit www.Broncos7K.com.* *
