The Blue-Gold festivities started early for many on Notre Dame's campus, and not just tailgaters.

Hundreds of students showed up despite a little rain for a 5-k run around Notre Dame's campus to benefit Hannah and Friends.

Coach Weis spoke to the crowd about Hannah and Friends before starting the race, and organizers say it was great to see the support from the student body.

“They get to run through the stadium, but also raise money and awareness for a good cause, Hannah and friends. We’re very grateful for that,” said Sharon Bui of Hannah and Friends.

Hannah's mother, Maura Weis, said “It’s incredible—the students here, they mean a lot to us, Charlie and I, Sharon, we love the students so we're really thrilled.”

This is the first time the event has been held.

All the proceeds go to Hannah and Friends to be used in their work with special needs students.