Reverend Joseph E. Kurtz, D.D. Bishop | Archdiocese of Louisville

Spalding University recently held its 52nd Running of the Rodents event on April 17. This annual tradition takes place ahead of the Kentucky Derby, scheduled for May 3. It serves as a celebration of the Derby season and provides stress relief for students.

Teams of students dedicate around six weeks to train rats for this event, guiding them to race on a small track. The winning team earns a garland made from fruit-flavored cereal. Participants this year included graduate students, members of the school's honors program, and the university's softball team members.

"Rocket," a rat trained by the Spalding softball team, won the race. Team member Makenna Roush placed the cereal garland on the victorious rodent.

The event traces its origins back to 1973 when Sister of Charity of Nazareth Julia Clare Fontaine initiated it. She was inspired after hearing a student refer to the "rat race" of finals week, according to the university’s website. Over time, it has become a part of Derby tradition. The event also aims to teach students about animal care and behavior modification techniques.