Memorial 5K Run to Benefit KU Research, Engineering Students


OVERLAND PARK, KS – The Sean D. Biggs Memorial Foundation will host a race on the University of Kansas Edwards Campus at 8 a.m., Sunday, Sept. 22.  The money raised will fund a grant in Sean D. Biggs’ name that will contribute to cancer prevention research at KU for years to come. A portion of the funds also will help KU School of Engineering students participate in study abroad.

Biggs was a Kansas native, KU 1998 civil engineering graduate, beloved son, father and husband, and avid runner and health enthusiast.  He loved to share his passion for healthy living with his wife, Neha, and two young children Millan and Simran.

In 2011, Sean was diagnosed with a rare form of intestinal cancer.  Despite his diagnosis, he lived life to the fullest, continuing to run, golf, and vacation with his family.  Biggs died in September 2012.

His friends and family members have organized the BIGGSteps 5K, Family Fun Run/Walk, and Kids’ Dash.  The 5K route starts on the University of Kansas Edwards Campus in Overland Park, follows the Indian Creek Trail and end on the Campus’ North side.  It will be chip-timed so serious runners can compete for personal bests and new runners can gauge their progress.   Booths will be set up at the race with face painting for the kids, mascots from local sports teams, local health experts with free cancer screenings and information, Jayhawk Motorsports’ winning racecar; and Chris Cakes will be on hand for a post-race breakfast.

Runners can register online now at biggsteps Kansas City or complete a paper registration the day of the race. University of Kansas students can register at a reduced rate using the code RUNKU (all caps).  Online registration closes on Sept. 19.

About the Foundation

The Sean D Biggs Memorial Foundation raises awareness of the causes and prevention of cancer; assists those affected by cancer; and supports cancer research.  Consistent with the vision of Sean Biggs, we also fund collegiate scholarships for study abroad and in the fields of alternative energy and energy efficiency.