Cold, hills not only challenge for Lake in the Hills runners Sunday

Despite 30-degree temperatures and cold winds that had most participants wearing multiple layers of clothing, runners enthusiastically took to the hilly terrain surrounding Lake in the Hills' Woods Creek Lake on Sunday morning for the annual Run Thru the Hills 5K and 10K races.

Some competitors even added to the challenge by strapping 30-pound rucksacks on their backs as they competed in new category added for this year's race.

Among them was Tim Moore of Crystal Lake, who wore a pack to help him get ready to run a marathon in Hawaii later this year with his father.

"It's always nice to get in shape after a long winter," he said.

A complimentary breakfast followed the race and helped celebrate the 20th anniversary of the Lake in the Hills Parks and Recreation Department.