Krispy Kreme Challenge returns for 16th year

The event, started in 2004 as a silly stunt by a group of friends at North Carolina State University, asks runners of all talent levels to make a 2.5-mile trek from the N.C. State Memorial Bell tower through historic downtown Raleigh to the Krispy Kreme located at the intersection of Peace and Person Streets, where they attempt to consume one dozen original glazed doughnuts. After the feast, runners trek the 2.5 miles back to the starting line.

This year's winner was Stephen Rathbun, who finished in 28 minutes and 28 seconds.

Sophomore Ben Gaddy was the first year's winner with a time of 34 minutes and 27 seconds. It has only grown from there, even making it onto Sports Illustrated’s “102 More Things You Gotta Do Before You Graduate.” It is held every February.

Since its inception, the event has raised more than $1.6 million for UNC Children's Hospital, a specialty-designed hospital that caters to the needs of sick or injured children and their families. Last year's race saw more than 5,000 runners take to the streets and $190,000 donated.

The annual race features a mix of college students, families and even parents pushing strollers. Many racers create special costumes for the event.