7th Annual Red Bandana Race

Over 1,050 runners filled Linden Lane on a brisk, sunny morning this Saturday as the 7th annual Welles Remy Crowther Red Bandana race began with its largest turnout ever.

"It's just a really good cause and it's really cool to see everybody come together," said Claire Townely, A&S '14. Crowther, BC '99, worked as an equities trader in the South Tower of the World Trade Center until Sept. 11, when he lost his life in efforts to save many others. Three years later, eyewitness accounts of a red bandana-clad man pointed towards Crowther's heroism in his last hour. With a red bandana protecting his nose and mouth from smoke and debris, he was able to save at least 12 lives that day. He directed two groups of confused people up and down 17 flights of stairs until, on his way back up for trapped victims, he and other FDNY members were caught in falling debris.

Crowther's father, Jeff, had given his son a red bandana when he was six-years-old and said, "Now this white handkerchief, that's for show. This red bandana, that's to blow." Since then, Crowther kept that bandana in his back pocket, becoming his signature item. It was clear to his parents that the "mysterious" red-bandana man seen on the 78th floor of the sky lobby was their son and eyewitnesses later proved it.

Its significance has perpetuated its prevalence and is becoming traditional BC football sportswear, a constant reminder of the selfless spirit ofCrowther and a driving force in the skyrocketing participation in this year's Red Bandana Race.

"There are changes coming. His story is not meant to be put on a pedestal, but to be shared with the world. You are a part of a growing story," said Alison Crowther, Crowther's mother, to the crowd gathered before her prior to the race. Alison and Jeff have been invited as guest speakers to other schools and say that, "Yes, he's a hero that saved lives, but there are many heroes. We're facing 1,000 heroes today."

Jeff touchingly said, "We lost our only son, my best friend … I know he has a big smile on his face for what you all are doing here today." The proceeds of the donations will go toward the charity of the winner's choosing as a part of the Welles Remy Crowther Charitable Trust.

Alison left the runners with a poignant quote she felt he would have wanted her to say: "Be courageous. Care for others. A hero lies in you."