Gold Rush Daze
March 10, 2009
For one fun-filled day, classes are canceled and parades, games, fireworks and more are the order of the day as Bob Jones University celebrates Gold Rush Daze.
What is Gold Rush Daze?
Based on the 1970s game show, “Almost Anything Goes,” the student body divides into two teams—the Blue Thunder and the Red Lightning. The teams decorate the residence halls, wear team colors and compete in games on the athletic field in an effort to prove which team has greater school spirit. This year’s competitions were:
- Ambush at See Saw Hill
- Runaway Mine Train
- The Schism Trail and more
History
The idea for Gold Rush Daze was born from the desire of Dr. Bob Jones III to build camaraderie between university officials and students. Stephen Wetterlund, Lead Coordinator of Mentoring and Student Leadership Development said, “It’s a day where we can step aside from the pressures of academia and come together as a family to have a good time. It shows that we are interested in the student as a whole person academically, physically, emotionally and spiritually.”
The first Gold Rush Daze took place on a cold, yet sunny day in 1977. Now held every four years, it is an event that students, faculty, staff and alumni highly anticipate.
Schedule
The day begins with breakfast in bed served to the students by faculty and staff. The afternoon kicks off at 1:15 p.m. with a parade on the athletic fields put together by the two teams. Games are followed by dinner at the Activity Center near the Alumni Stadium.
The day concludes with a faculty and staff-produced program for the students in Founder’s Memorial Amphitorium at 7 p.m. followed by a singspiration and fireworks at Alumni Stadium.
