Brenau University Amphitheater, Gainesville GA
Saturday, March 14th, 2026
On March 14, Brenau University will host its annual Dempsey Dash 5K and 1K Fun Run in memory of the university’s long-time executive vice president and CFO, Wayne Dempsey. The event benefits the Wayne W. Dempsey Endowed Scholarship Fund, first funded in Dempsey’s memory in 2014 by an anonymous donor.
Certified race: Certification # is GA24002DJ
Those who knew Dr. Dempsey remember him as quite the clotheshorse. Always dressed to the nines, he had a reputation for impeccable style. He was almost always seen around campus in a well-coordinated suit and tie or a fashionable sport coat. Even his sons recall him as a younger man cutting the grass in a pair of penny loafers! It's unclear exactly how his signature bow tie habit began. His older son claims to have started wearing bow ties in the late 80s, forging his own fashion identity. The elder Dempsey, admiring the look, decided to give them a try himself. Taking it a step further, Dr. Dempsey even sought out lessons to learn how to tie them properly. He and his son spent hours practicing and mastering the skill. From there, the trademark look was born. Dr. Dempsey frequently sported bow ties in his daily professional life, and they became his calling card. After his passing, his sons inherited his tie collection, and one continues to wear the bow ties today. In this way, the bow tie has become a unique and touching way to remember a great and unique man.
When to pick up participant bags or shirts? Saturday, at registration/check-in.
For more information and registration, visit the official race page: Dempsey Dash 5K.
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