Students, staff, alumni and fans of the university laced up their tennis shoes and sneakers early Saturday morning, Aug. 16, to participate in Alabama State University’s third annual Buzz Run. The competitors gathered near Gate E of ASU Stadium at 7 a.m., ready for a morning filled with energy, connection and Hornet pride.
This year’s course wound through the heart of campus and into the Cloverdale area, offering scenic views filled with Hornet spirit. The race ended at ASU Stadium, where cheers and music greeted each runner who finished the course. Every runner who finished received a gold medal from Brenda Brown Dillard, president of the university’s board of trustees, along with a pair of socks gifted by volunteers.
“I was at the first Buzz Run, and this vision that Coach Beene had, I absolutely loved,” Dillard said. “It fits right in with one of our strategic goals, which is ‘CommUniversity,’ and this is ‘CommUniversity.’ We involved the entire community. This is an exciting time. Students are back, our enrollment is 4,552, and we are excited about this year. It is a great day to be a Hornet.”
Among the runners was Genese Lavalais, senior associate athletic director, who chose to join the participants instead of watching from the sidelines.
“Remember to always dominate,” she said with a smile at the finish line.
The visionary behind the Buzz Run, track and field head coach Ritchie Beene, believes the event has come a long way from when it started.
“This race was fun,” Beene said. “We had people from the community, former athletes, President Ross, AD Cable, city officials, the board president and more here to celebrate with us. It was a great day and a great place to run. You finished inside the stadium, and that was exciting. This was a vision I had years ago, and it has happened. It is going to get bigger and better. Hornets, if you were not there, you missed a treat. Next year is only going to be bigger. It is up from here.”
The turnout reflected his optimism. From first-time freshmen to seasoned runners, the Buzz Run offered something for everyone.
Executive Director of Marketing and Strategic Communications Shani L. Crayton emphasized the event’s impact.
“This is one of the initiatives in CommUniversity that people really look for,” Crayton said. “We have runners of all ages and demographics, and they are here to enjoy health and wellness and prepare for another school year. We also pair it with Buzz Fest, where students and the community can meet student-athletes and enjoy being part of the athletic department.”
Amber Douglass, director of branding and marketing, said organizing the event was a meaningful experience.
“This was my second time helping with the Buzz Run,” Douglass said. “It was amazing to see people of all backgrounds come together for their health. This inspired me. This day supports our social work and track departments, and it was truly a family-friendly event. If you are thinking about starting your health journey, do not wait for a perfect time. Just start. Your health and your mind matter.”
Students also made their mark. DeJuan Trotman, a senior accounting major and 72nd Student Government Association president, returned for his second Buzz Run.
“This event keeps growing; it has become one of our major events for both the community and students,” Trotman said. “A lot of students here are really into fitness and health. This is a way to stay active, connect with others and just enjoy the moment.”
Freshman Amaya Burrows, a criminal justice major and volunteer, said the crowd’s energy motivated her.
“Seeing the crowd’s positive energy gave me energy,” she said. “I want to tell my Class of 2029 to keep grinding. In the end, you will see your success.”
Freshman Daedrin Beville also joined, saying she chose the university to be surrounded by students who look like her.
“This Buzz Run has been so much fun and inspirational,” Beville said.
Alumnus Henry Austin returned for his second year.
“The distance was spot on this year, and it was fun,” Austin said. “This 5K benefits both students and the community.”
Even members of the community who were not Hornets wanted to be a part of the event.
Draven Patterson, a cross-country runner, said, “I am not a Hornet; however, I appreciate the invite, and this was an awesome experience. The weather was nice, the course was solid, and it just felt good to be part of this. I definitely recommend that other Hornets join next time.”
First-place winner Ryan Stanford, representing Fleet Feet, joined the Buzz Run for the first time.
“Coach Beene is fantastic,” Stanford said. “We support all colleges that have cross-country and track teams, and we are very supportive of the university. The students brought the energy. This is a beautiful campus. Keep on running.”
Second-place runner John Zenor also praised the event.
“I did this last year and came back because it was so much fun,” Zenor said. “Some friends joined me this year, and I did not do too badly for a 55-year-old. I am proud of my age, and this event was amazing. Alabama State always puts on a great race. The support was unbelievable.”
The Buzz Run proceeds benefit the track and field and cross-country programs, and with each passing year, the event continues to grow in size, spirit and Hornet pride.
