Donuts+Running=Ugly Mess
Apr 3rd, 2011 by beverleycheng
Recently I had read an article in a running magazine, about how the writer had run in a 4 mile race in North Carolina. Just over 6km, it didn’t seem to be very exciting. That is, until he started describing the 12 donuts that he had stopped to shove into his mouth. I reread that sentence about six times, until I realized he was serious. Then I began to feel a little queasy myself.
As I read on I learned that it was called the Krispy Kreme Challenge held in North Carolina, benefiting the NC Childrens Hospital. The rules were that the runner had to run 2miles to the donuts, finish off all 12 donuts, and run 2miles back. All in one hour.
Personally, I hate donuts. But I love running. But I hate eating and then running too soon afterwards. This race just was absolutely not appealing to me at all and so I was shocked to read that over 5000 people ran this race in 2009. Krispy Kreme did themself a favor, but probably also managed to drive away business after the race. Although many serious runners were in this race, this was also targeted to a huge number of people who do not consider themselves to be runners. People who just wanted to have a bit of fun, while also donating to charity and getting to stuff their faces with donuts AND have a valid excuse for it.
I believe this was a very strong marketing strategy on Krispy Kreme’s part, as they somehow managed to incorporate a healthy activity with the “challenge” of eating 12 donuts.
Personally, I would never do it. But if you’re ever in Raleigh North Carolina, definitely something to think about if you’re feeling a bit peckish.
xB.
