NEI 5K Is Largest Ever

Hundreds begin running at the starting line.

The largest-ever NEI 5K Run/Walk/Roll starts.

Photo: Leslie Kossoff

A smiling Dr. Chiang stands at podium to address crowd.

NEI director Dr. Michael Chiang rallies participants at the 5K start.

Photo: Leslie Kossoff

Hayes in red, inflatable costume that reads "Give Blood," holds 2 plastic eyeballs over his eyes outside, in front of Bldg. 1.

NEI’s Dustin Hays promotes the NIH Blood Bank’s blood drive. Blood bank staff signed up more than 40 new donors at NEI’s annual 5K Walk/Run/Roll.

Photo: Leslie Kossoff

A group of walkers traveling on the path

With perfect fall weather and a record turnout, the 2022 event was deemed a success. Each institute and center was represented among participants. NEI launched the event in 2018 as part of its 50th anniversary celebration.

Photo: Leslie Kossoff

Three smiling, sweaty guys pose together after the race outside Bldg. 1.

5K winners are (from l) Ian Morgan of NIGMS (second place), Isaiah King of NCI (first place) and Takashi Akera of NHLBI (third place).

Photo: Leslie Kossoff

A man visits the NEI virtual reality table; a banner reads: "See what I see: reality eye disease experience"

NEI hosts a virtual reality experience to inform about eye disease.

Photo: Leslie Kossoff

A group of smiling people gather around sign that reads "I survived Walk/Run/Roll 5K outside on the NIH campus.

All smiles for a fun time.

Photo: Leslie Kossoff

The third 5K Walk/Run/Roll, held Oct. 19 by the National Eye Institute (NEI), was the largest ever with more than 500 participants from across NIH. Organizations also staffed booths and kiosks, providing health info and demonstrations.

“We have a dedicated, vibrant community here at NIH,” said NEI director Dr. Michael Chiang. “I hope this event gives you an opportunity to meet face-to-face with folks who perhaps you’ve only met virtually, and chat with many others you haven’t seen in a while.”

The annual event was suspended in 2020-2022 due to the Covid-19 pandemic.