RALEIGH -- Thousands gathered for this year's Krispy Kreme Challenge on Hillsborough Street and downtown Raleigh Saturday morning.

Runners braved temperatures in the 20s, sore muscles and scarfing down a dozen donuts, all to help raise money for the UNC Children's Hospital.

The challenge started among ten friends in 2004 and has transformed into a nationally publicized charity race, and the number one tradition to complete before graduating from North Carolina State University.

Participants have one hour to run 2.5 miles from the Memorial Belltower at NC State, eat a dozen donuts equaling 2,400 calories at the Krispy Kreme on Peace and Person Streets, and then run 2.5 miles back to the Belltower. If that doesn't test your strength then what does?

Last year, more than 6,000 people participated in the challenge, raising more than $190,000 -- bringing the cumulative donation to $1,350,000.

To see pictures of the event, visit our Instagram @spectrumnewsnc.