Grand Marshals Set to Inspire 2026 Big 10K
Former Indiana University football standouts Pat Coogan and Omar Cooper Jr. have been named grand marshals for the 2026 BTN Big 10K, scheduled for Saturday, July 11 at Soldier Field in Chicago. The announcement comes as the event celebrates its 15th anniversary, blending a 10‑kilometer race, a 5‑kilometer fun run and a post‑race festival featuring food, music and giveaways.
The race will start and finish on the historic lakefront grounds of Soldier Field, offering participants a scenic route through the city’s iconic skyline. Organizers expect thousands of runners to join the 10K and 5K distances, with a celebration area that will showcase Big Ten mascots, cheer squads and a lineup of local vendors.
Coogan, who started every game for the Hoosiers last season, earned Rose Bowl Offensive MVP honors after helping Indiana capture its first-ever national championship in January. The Tennessee Titans selected him in the sixth round of the recent NFL Draft, marking the culmination of a collegiate career that combined on‑field leadership with academic dedication.
Cooper Jr., a Lawrence North High School product, topped the Hoosiers with 69 receptions for 937 yards and 13 touchdowns in the previous season. His impressive performance earned him a first‑round selection by the New York Jets in the April NFL Draft, a testament to his rapid rise from college standout to professional prospect.
Both players were integral to Indiana’s historic championship run, a milestone that has sparked renewed enthusiasm for the university’s football program. Their presence at the Big 10K is intended to inspire current student‑athletes and give back to the community that supported their journey.
The event’s organizers have partnered with local sponsors and the Big Ten Network to provide a vibrant post‑race experience, featuring live entertainment, culinary offerings and opportunities for fans to meet Big Ten icons. As the city prepares for the July gathering, the contributions of Coogan and Cooper Jr. underscore the lasting impact of collegiate athletics beyond the field.