As the sun rose over Janss Steps early Sunday, Jeffrey Lin ran past the line framed by two Finish flags in Wilson Plaza and, in the process, crossed an item off his UCLA bucket list.

While Lin did not come in first place at the 13th annual Bruin Run/Walk, the number 1 pinned across his UCLA Quidditch shirt showed his enthusiasm for the event he was the first of more than 900 participants to sign up for the 5K benefiting the Chase Child Life Program at UCLAs Mattel Childrens Hospital.

One of the few runs held at UCLA throughout the year, the Run/Walk has always been on his list of things to do during his time at college, said Lin, a third-year microbiology, immunology and molecular genetics student.

This year, he found the time to take part. His girlfriend, Tiffany Chow, is the participants coordinator for the event, which also encouraged him to run in the race.

Given the choice, he would rather run or bike anywhere, Chow, a third-year biochemistry and microbiology, immunology and molecular genetics student, said with a laugh.

After registering, Lin encouraged his Quidditch teammates to form a team, said Alex Browne, Lins friend, teammate and a third-year mechnical engineering student.

At times, (Lin) can be a pretty calm guy, but when you see him stepping up and getting a lot of people to join with him on this cause, you cant help but get excited too, Browne said.

Coming in 45 seconds off his personal record of 18 minutes and 20 seconds for a 5K race, a sweaty Lin said he was a little disappointed in his time, but was glad he participated because he likes running to support a cause.

As a group of kids participating in the Kids Race ran by, Lin broke off the conversation and looked toward the children.

So cute, he said, gazing at them with a fond smile. Theyre all so sweet.

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Bruin Run/Walk cause inspires avid Bruin runner to participate in 5K event