Cantigny 5K benefits homeless veterans
Runners of all ages can raise money to benefit the Midwest Shelter for Homeless Veterans during the 11th annual Cantigny 5K Run/Walk on Saturday, Nov. 1.
The race steps off at 9 a.m. at Cantigny Park, 1S151 Winfield Road, Wheaton.
Race proceeds benefit the transitional living facility in Wheaton that provides assistance to U.S. veterans in need, including skills for independent living. The 2013 Cantigny 5K raised $11,000 for the shelter.
Race registration is limited to the first 1,000 entries. A full field has been achieved every year since the first Cantigny 5K in 2004.
The event's popularity begins with the scenic course, which highlights key features throughout the 500-acre Cantigny estate. Runners and walkers start and finish at the park's Visitor Center.
During the route they pass the First Division Museum, Robert R. McCormick Museum and formal gardens. A portion of the route covers rolling hills on Cantigny's 27-hole golf course. The entire course is on a blacktop surface.
The Cantigny 5K is chip timed. Results will include finish time, pace, overall finish position, age and division place. The entry fee is $25 and includes a running shirt. A Youth Run (1 mile and chip timed) is offered for ages 6 to 10, and a Tot Run (one-quarter mile) is open to children ages 1 to 5.
Registration for the youth and tot divisions is $10. Kids also receive a shirt and a medal.
Race registration is available online at signmeup.com/100021. Registration will be available until the limit is reached or 4 p.m. on Oct. 30, whichever comes first. There is no race day registration.
Also on race day, Cantigny Post 556 of the American Legion will host a Pancake Breakfast from 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. inside the Cantigny Visitors Center. Runners, walkers and spectators are welcome. The cost is $7 and $2 for ages 4 and younger; parking is free.
Cantigny 5K details are online at www.cantigny.org. Questions about the event may be directed to Brian Gray at bgray@cantigny.org or (630) 260-8167.
More information about the Midwest Shelter for Homeless Veterans is online at helpaveteran.org.