Registration open for Morton Arboretum 10K champions trees

Runners can take to a beautiful, tree-lined course during the Morton Arboretum's seventh annual Champion of Trees 10K race Sunday, April 23.

The race is the arboretum's welcome to spring as runners travel a challenging and scenic path through the arboretum's wooded east side in support of the institution's tree-focused programs and research initiatives.

On the USATF-certified course, participants will race alongside maples, oaks and the ginkgo trees of the arboretum's China collection. Following the race, participants can enjoy a party featuring a photo booth, food specials and live music, along with a complimentary beer for those 21 and older. Participants are invited to spend the day at the arboretum following the run.

"Runners can start their day with an invigorating race through our picturesque course, which supports the arboretum's tree science initiatives to create a greener, healthier and more beautiful world," special events coordinator Mary D'Amico said. "We invite people to join us for a post-race celebration as well as spend their day exploring our grounds, including our award-winning Children's Garden."

The race begins at 8 a.m. with the awards ceremony at 9:15 a.m. at the arboretum, 4100 Route 53, Lisle. Registered runners can pick up their race packet at Dick Pond Athletics, 2775 Maple Ave., Lisle, on select days. Runners receive a short-sleeve T-shirt, recovery food and admission to the arboretum and will wear race-timing technology from the Chronotrack B-Tag system.

Online registration is open at mortonarb.org, under events and programs. The cost, including admission, is $40 for members or $45 for others through Saturday, March 18. From Sunday, March 19, to Saturday, April 15, the cost is $45 for members and $50 for others. After, registration is $50 for members and $55 for others in advance. Race-day registration is $55 and spots may be limited. The registration fee is nonrefundable and any cancellation will be considered a donation to the Morton Arboretum.

A special new member offer includes race registration plus a discounted one-year individual membership to the arboretum for $95.