Homecoming: W marks the spot

This year’s Badger Homecoming celebration offers pirate-style fun, and members of the university community and their families and friends are invited to come aboard for the festivities.

Homecoming 2005 sets sail on Friday afternoon, Oct. 14, when 128 students will compete in the EA Sports NCAA Football Challenge from noon-4 p.m. in the Memorial Union parking lot. It’s billed as “the ultimate college video game tournament.” Sixteen universities across the nation are participating, and the champion from each campus will be flown to New York to compete for the title of national champion.

Also on Friday afternoon, student organizations will demonstrate their pirate spirit by competing in “Bucky’s Barge Building Contest.” From 2-3 p.m., they’ll be building their barges on Library Mall using cardboard and duct tape. From 3-4 p.m., the barges will race along the shore behind the Union. There will be entertainment by the Madhatters, the Wisconsin Singers and other performers on Library Mall from noon-2 p.m. and judging of the “Dress Like a Pirate” contest at 3 p.m.

The Homecoming Charity 5K Run/3K Walk starts at noon on Sunday, Oct. 16, on Langdon Street at Library Mall. Participants can pre-register online or on the day of the event at Library Mall between 9;30-11:30 a.m. Entry fees are $15 until Wednesday, Oct. 12, and $20 on race day.

For those who love golf, there is the eighth annual Homecoming Golf Outing at University Ridge starting at 12;45 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 21. It includes food and the chance to win some nice prizes. The cost is $125 per person, $450 for a foursome, and $75 for students. Pre-registration is required.

The Homecoming parade, always a popular event for the entire community, is scheduled for 6 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 21. It features the UW Marching Band and dozens of other units, including antique cars and creative and colorful floats constructed by student organizations. It will travel down State Street from Gilman to Lake Street. An awards ceremony will be held on the Union Terrace, followed by fireworks, weather permitting.

Drivers should note that Langdon Street will be closed to all traffic starting at 5 p.m. on the day of the parade. It should re-open completely by 7:30 p.m.