Palatine fire take on police in Battle of the Badge 5K run

Palatine’s emergency workers have always engaged in a friendly rivalry, sometimes competing for bragging rights on the gridiron or basketball court.

This spring, the competition will shift to the village streets, and for a good cause, with inaugural Battle of the Badge 5K Run.

The public is invited to participate in the event, which is being put on by the Palatine Police and Fire Benevolent Association. The group, formed in 2007, raises money to help community members through difficult times, as well for the families of fallen or injured area firefighters and police officers.

The inaugural event is scheduled for 8 a.m. Sunday, May 15. The route will take runners from the north side of Towne Square, west on Wood Street through the Palatine Prairie Nature Preserve, south to Helen Road and back up north to Towne Square.

Organizers are hoping for about 300 participants, but officials say it’s difficult to predict attendance at a first-time event. To register online, visit https://www.signmeup.com/site/online-event-registration/74071.