Hoffman Estates inline skate races expand to cycling, foot races

Last year's inline skating races in Hoffman Estates drew such a positive response that this year's event has been expanded, thanks to some corporate muscle.

Both Alexian Brothers Health Network and the Chicago Blackhawks have backed the now-three-day event, newly re-dubbed as the Alexian Brothers Fitness For American Sports Festival. It will run July 24 to 26.

The Chicagoland Inline Marathon remains the event's centerpiece as one of the country's largest inline skating races. But this year, a 5K walk, 10K run and cycling races have been added, while the pro inline skating event will grow to three days with multiple heats. All will offer chip timing, allowing organizers to easily track race results.

Peter Starykowicz, who helped organize last year's races, approached Hoffman Estates officials with the idea to expand. He envisioned a sports festival that gives everyone from more serious athletes to those who just want to improve their fitness levels the chance to participate. He said the event represents a change in America's attitudes toward consumption and fitness.

"We don't drive Chevy Suburbans anymore; we drive Honda Fits. We don't eat McDonald's; we eat Subway Fresh meals," he said.

The Blackhawks, making a push to get the team's name out after breaking a seven-year Stanley Cup Playoffs appearance drought, are now the title sponsor of the inline events, which include professional-level and children's races.

The sponsor money may gave race organizers more resources to play with, but Starykowicz said he and his staff have more to do.

"We want to deliver the participant an experience rather than an event," he said.

The weekend will again include an expo with skate companies, massage therapists and nutritional consultants on hand showing off their wares. Starykowicz hopes to draw 2,000 participants, well above last year. The event will again take place on the village's northwest side, west of Barrington and Central roads.

Mundelein hosted the first inline marathon two years ago, but the event shifted to Hoffman Estates, whose roads are used by skaters to practice. Starykowicz, of Long Grove, is a veteran race organizer.

This year's event will also feature bicycle blasts and time trials, which are shorter races than the venerable Tour of Elk Grove cycling race. Starykowicz seeks to differentiate his event, saying his will open participation to a wider scope of people.

For more information on registration, check allcommunityevents.com/gfasf/gfasf_home.html.