CrazyLegs Classic goes global

Already one of the largest races in the country, the CrazyLegs Classic is expanding its footprint worldwide for a second year.

More than 350 participants have registered to run their own version of the race in support of University of Wisconsin athletics. The far-flung athletes, representing alumni chapters in France and a half-dozen states, can register, receive a race packet and run. Individuals will be competing in their personal CrazyLegs Classics around the world, according to UW alumni staff.

Recreating the finish on the 50-yard line inside Camp Randall Stadium is a bigger challenge.

The race on Saturday will be the 30th running of the CrazyLegs, which ranks among the top five in the country for participants at the 8K distance. Based on the 2009 total of 10,746 timed runners, the CrazyLegs ranks as the 45th largest race in the country, according to RunningUSA.

Total participation was 20,415 in 2010, and organizers anticipate breaking that record on Saturday.

One of the runners taking the start line will be Al Wortley, an engineering professor who will complete a perfect 30 for 30 run.

Rob Schultz shared Wortley's story on www.madison.com.