Chevron Laces Up for 2016 Saints Kickoff Run

NEW ORLEANS — Chevron will serve as the presenting sponsor of the New Orleans Saints' and Easy Day Sports' 2016 Saints Kickoff Run. The fifth-annual 5K race takes place on Saturday, Sept. 10, the day before the Saints' home-opening game.

The race begins at 7:30 a.m. with a half-mile Kids Fun Run at 9 a.m. Club mascots Gumbo and Sir Saint, as well as members of the Saintsations, will attend and cheer on runners. The race course starts at Champions Square and ends with runners sprinting through the Saints team tunnel to the finish at the 50-yard line in the Mercedes-Benz Superdome.

For the first time this year, runners can view themselves on the new giant video boards above each end zone. Live entertainment, a Bud Light beer garden and jambalaya in Champions Square will follow the race. All participants will receive an official race shirt and a finisher's medal.

"With the start of the Saints 50th Season upon us, we are thrilled to share the excitement of the start of the 2016 season with our fans at the Saints Kickoff Run presented by Chevron," said Saints Owner and Chairman of the Board Tom Benson. "The annual Saints Kickoff Run provides our fans and the community the opportunity to come together prior to the start of what we feel will be an exciting and memorable season in 2016, all while benefiting a great community asset in the Louisiana Children's Museum."

Fans and local businesses can compete for the event's Corporate Cup, which will be awarded to the group of participants that registers as a team and best shows its "Black and Gold" spirit by bringing the largest number of runners. Corporate Cup Champions will have the chance to take a team photo at the 50-year line as they are recognized for their contribution. Team members are encouraged to make an additional donation when they register, continuing the event's giving tradition. In the last four years, the Saints Kickoff Run has donated more than $250,000 to local charities.

Additionally, all race participants will have the chance to compete in the pre-race costume contest. The winner will receive a pair of tickets and pregame sideline passes to the Saints season opener against the Oakland Raiders on Sept. 11.

"The Saints Kickoff Run is one of the NFL's most popular fan events and is one part of Chevron's commitment to investing in the local community," said Chevron Gulf of Mexico Vice President Mike Illanne. "By sponsoring the 5K run, we're promoting healthy lifestyles among football fans of all ages, as well as supporting the Louisiana Children's Museum. We're looking forward to the run and an exciting 2016 New Orleans Saints season."

Race registration and more information are available at www.saints5k.com.