Fall into fitness
Yes, the leaves may be starting to fall and it may almost be time to set back the clocks, but just because summer may be coming to an end doesn't mean it's time to get bundled up inside yet. There are still many fitness activities to keep your mood sunny and bright.
Here is a list of the races and bike rides that are in full gear. Don't put that sun block away yet - you might still need it.
Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure
Come out and race for a cure for breast cancer on Saturday, Sept. 27. The race begins at 8:30 a.m. with registration starting at 6 a.m. There will be an aerobic warmup at the start stage at 8:15 a.m. The race takes place at Grant Park with either a 5K run or walk. The prices are $40 for adults, $35 for students, $35 for seniors (65 and older) and $30 for children younger than 12. For details, visit komenchicago.org.
Ride like an Egyptian
Go ahead and ride like an Egyptian on Saturday, Sept. 27, at the Egyptian Theater in DeKalb. The bike routes available include a 25-mile, 50-mile, 75-mile and 100-mile race. The cost is $25 for adults and $5 for children or free if riding with a paid adult. Enjoy four 25-mile mix-and-match routes for your journey. Registration begins at 7 a.m. with the race starting at 10 a.m. You will also be treated to an end-of-the-ride meal. Proceeds will go to the Egyptian Theater. For information, visit egyptiantheatre.org.
Run to Read
Run for children at the Run to Read race that takes place on Sunday, Sept. 28, at Dirksen Elementary School in Schaumburg. There is a 5K run/walk, a one-mile family walk, or 100- and 400-yard dashes for children. The purpose of this event is to fight childhood diabetes by promoting exercise. The proceeds will go toward purchasing books for classroom libraries in District 54. The cost is $10 for junior high age and younger, $20 for high school, $25 for ages 19-59 and $15 for ages 60 years and older. Registration is from 7 to 8:30 a.m., with the 100-yard dash beginning at 8 a.m., the 400-yard dash at 8:15 a.m., the 5K at 8:30 a.m. and the family walk beginning at 8:45am. Visit sd54.org/SD54/runtoread.htm.
Fall Color 5K Run and Walk
Take in the beautiful fall colors as you run through the rolling hills of the Morton Arboretum in Lisle on Sunday, Oct. 5. The run/walk begins at 8 a.m. Members are $25, nonmembers are $30 before race day, $35 on race day. After the race enjoy a post-race massage and recovery food. For information, visit mortonarb.org.
Scarecrow Scramble
Come and run a race in the dark, but don't worry, the path isn't haunted. The Scarecrow Scramble 5K run/walk begins at 6:30 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 18. The cost is $25 before Oct. 16 and $30 on race day. Costumes are encouraged as there will be prizes given after the race. Visit lislepartnersforparks.org/5krun.htm for details.
Frank Lloyd Wright Race
For those of you looking for a 10K race, come out and run the 32nd Annual Frank Lloyd Wright Race on Sunday, Oct. 26, at River Forest High School in Oak Park. This race offers a 5K run or walk at 8 a.m., a 10K run at 8:30 a.m. and a Youth Mile at 8:45 a.m. Awards will be given. The races cost $20 for the 5K and 10K runs, $15 for the 5K walk and $12 for the Youth Mile through Oct. 25. Race day fees are $25 for the 5K and 10K runs, $20 for the 5K walk and $15 for the Youth Mile. For details, visit oakparkparks.com/flw2008.htm.
Maybe you want to use these races to help you train for your big run at the Chicago Marathon in October or maybe you are just looking for a great workout. Whatever the case, see you at the finish line.