More than 15,000 participants are expected next Saturday morning for the 26th annual Crazylegs Classic walk and run, a benefit for the University of Wisconsin athletic program. The event, consisting of an 8-kilometer run or a 2-mile walk followed by a post-race festival at Camp Randall, has raised more than $2 million total since its inception in 1982. "It brings the community together because it puts together the campus community with all the rest of the UW supporters," said Dolene Dower, an organizer from the National W Club, a UW athletic club. "It's just become a Madison tradition." According to Terry Murawski, executive director of the National W Club, last year's Classic raised $300,000 before expenses. "We raise a little bit of money on the race — it's not as much as people think because the expenses are pretty significant," Murawski said. "But this event is more than about raising money; I actually think it's a 'friendraiser' for the athletic department." Murawski said people from 37 states participated in last year's run. An estimated 350 to 400 volunteers are expected to work in numerous capacities on the event. "We've had thousands of volunteers, and believe me, they work diligently to coordinate this program," Dower said. The Crazylegs Classic is named for former UW athlete and athletic director Elroy "Crazylegs" Hirsh. Celebrity participation in the event is tradition — this year UW football head coach Bret Bielema will serve as the Crazylegs Classic Grand Marshall, while Cindy Alvarez will lead the walk. Gov. Jim Doyle is also expected to participate, following the tradition of other Wisconsin governors, according to the event website. The UW Marching Band will perform the "World Famous 5th Quarter" following the event, and appearances by Bucky Badger and the UW cheerleaders are also expected. A performance by The Mighty Short Bus, a Madison rock band, will close out the post-race festival. Registration is available online for the walk and run and the Fun and Fitness program, where teams of at least 10 members participate as a group. According to Dower, a record number of teams are expected this year. "It just builds so much camaraderie and sportsmanship," Dower said.