12th annual Saints Kickoff Run presented by Hancock Whitney open for registration

Proceeds from the 12th running of the New Orleans Saints Kickoff Run will benefit the Louisiana National Guard Foundation

Jul 08, 2024 at 10:00 AM

The New Orleans Saints and Easy Day Sports announced today that online registration for the 12th Annual Saints Kickoff Run, presented by Hancock Whitney, is now open at saints5k.com. The race will take place on Saturday, September 7th, the day before the Saints open the regular season at home against the Carolina Panthers. The yearly tradition is one of the most popular 5K events in the Gulf South region. Proceeds from this year's event will benefit The Louisiana National Guard Foundation.

"The Louisiana National Guard Foundation is deeply honored and grateful to have been selected by the New Orleans Saints to receive the proceeds from the Saints 5K Run," said Mike Niclosi, Executive Director of the Foundation. "This partnership marks a significant moment for us, as it enables our continued support for Guard members in their crucial mission of preserving life, property, and public safety during natural disasters. We extend our heartfelt thanks to Mrs. Benson and the entire New Orleans Saints organization for their unwavering support of our military and for entrusting us with this invaluable opportunity."

This family-friendly event is open to all ages with a 5K (3.1-miles) and a half-mile Kids Fun Run. The 5K route begins in Champions Square, and heads towards the French Quarter via Poydras and N Peters before turning around just past the Bienville Monument. On the return, racers do a ½ lap around the Caesars Superdome before entering and running through the iconic Saints team tunnel. Once inside it's a sprint finish that ends on the 50-yard line as runners view themselves on the giant video boards above each end zone! The Kids Fun Run also finishes within the Caesars Superdome. Each participant will receive a commemorative t-shirt, finishers medal and a post-5k celebration featuring music and complimentary refreshments provided by Anheuser-Busch, and Coca-Cola in Champions Square to celebrate the start of the 2024 NFL Season.

"For twelve years now, the Saints 5K Kickoff Run presented by Hancock Whitney has been a thrilling opportunity for our fans to come together and celebrate the start of the new football season," said Gayle Benson, Owner of the New Orleans Saints. "We take pride in hosting this dynamic running experience, showcasing our team's commitment to our fans' health and wellness. It's a joy to witness the enthusiasm and camaraderie this event showcases, and we are honored to support the Louisiana National Guard Foundation with a portion of the proceeds, reinforcing our dedication to both our community and our nation's service members."

The Saints Kickoff Run has evolved into a city-wide tradition, uniting fans and promoting the start of the Saints' season. It serves as an opportunity for participants to engage in a healthy and positive charitable activity while celebrating football. It's a Saints community tradition unlike any other.

"Hancock Whitney proudly serves as the official bank of the New Orleans Saints, and we are privileged to collaborate with the organization for the Saints Kickoff Run in September," said Liz Hefler, Regional President at Hancock Whitney Bank. "This event presents a wonderful opportunity for local families to come together in celebration of our community, our team, and the official start of the Saints football season. We eagerly anticipate your participation!"

Saints fans and passionate runners alike are encouraged to secure their spots in the highly anticipated 2024 Saints Kickoff Run. Online registration opens on Monday, July 8th, offering a special discounted price for the first 1,000 individuals who sign up. Mark your calendars for the exciting event, scheduled to commence at 7:30 a.m. on Saturday, September 7th.

The Louisiana National Guard Foundation's mission is to exclusively support the Louisiana National Guard's mission, its members, veterans, and families as well as the educational programs and museums of the Louisiana National Guard. For more information, please visit https://langfoundation.org/.

For additional information about the Saints 5k and to register for the race, please visit Saints5k.com and follow @Saints5k on Facebook and Instagram.

About Easy Day Sports

Easy Day Sports is a dynamic event production agency that focuses on premier, professionally managed endurance sports events. The company prides itself on exposing the spirit of sport within people. With a commitment to excellence, Easy Day Sports strives to create memorable experiences for participants of all ages and skill levels.

Photos: 2023 Saints 5K Kickoff Run presented by Hancock Whitney

.New Orleans Saints fans kicked of the start of the 2023 NFL season at the team's annual kickoff 5K run presented by Hancock Whitney and Kids Fun Run on September 9.

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New Orleans Saints fans kicked of the start of the 2023 NFL season at the team's annual kickoff 5K run presented by Hancock Whitney and Kids Fun Run on September 9.