By Emily Couchman/reporter

About 300 students and faculty joined in the 12th annual Gobble Wobble run/walk Nov. 17 on South Campus.

With an entrance fee of five cans per person, an estimated 2,500 pounds of food were donated to the Tarrant Area Food Bank.

“It’s a great cause,” said student Emily Mitchell. “And it’s a great way to get heart-healthy.”

The first 200 participants received a T-shirt, and all participants received a pedometer, courtesy of community outreach director Vera Clayborn.

“We really ought to order more,” she said. “We run out every year.”

With the 2.7-mile run/walk, Clayborn said South tries to make a difference in the community’s health.

“Malnourishment and obesity have a negative impact on communities,” she said. “It is our responsibility as a community and educators to be champions against hunger and obesity.”

Many Wobblers come every year to contribute to the can drive, said third-year volunteer Sherry Polty.

“People will just come to donate the food,” she said. “Many don’t even want to do the walk or run. It amazes me.”

Others are determined to improve their health before the holidays.

“It’s fun running for charity, but also to get fit, especially before Thanksgiving,” said Clara Slaughter, student and Wobble participant.

The walk and run were each divided into four age groups. Each age group was also divided into men’s and women’s groups.

The first to finish was Emanuel Pereda from the men’s 18-35 running division with a finish time of 17 minutes, 9 seconds. Pereda was followed by Ngong Kok from the same division.

In the women’s running division, the first to cross the finish line was Nicole Hobey from the 18-35 division. She finished with a time of 21:32. Runner-up was Samantha Aguilera from the same division.

In the men’s walking division, Gary Pugh from the 36-55 division crossed the finish line first with a final time of 33:42. Justin Rodgers from the 18-35 division came in second.

Amy Kubinsk from the 18-35 division finished the women’s walking division with a time of 33:14. Runner-up was Rosalinda Alvarado from the women’s 36-55 division.

All first-place winners were awarded a large turkey while the runners-up received a smoked turkey.

South Campus’ physical education department, student activities and community outreach sponsored the event.

“[The run] was very exhilarating and exciting,” Slaughter said. “It was fun.”