Wheaton church's 5K fundraiser sets new record

The fastest growing 5k in the western suburbs had a record 934 registrations and 834 people crossing the finish line in cool conditions at the College Church STARS Ministry's Run for the STARS on June 11 in Wheaton.

The race now ranks in the top 11 percent of all Chicago area 5K events (No. 39 of 327) and is the largest faith-based 5K in the Chicago area, according to race director Anthony Solis who has researched the race market.

Runners enjoyed hot and cold brewed coffee from I Have A Bean, delicious post-race food, and an estimated 500 attended the popular bib raffle that featured 23 prizes, including a trip to the Caribbean.

The sponsor fair included businesses such as Johnsen and Taylor, Family Health & Wellness, 5 Hour Energy, Cardinal Fitness, Chick-Fil-A, and others.

The Chick-Fil-A cow mascot and Cardinal Fitness bird mascot joined elite runners on the starting line for fun. Wheaton Michael Gresk also attended and greeted participants from 80 towns and villages around Illinois, 10 states, and 2 countries. Free online photos were taken and posted on the event website.

The event raised over $35,000 for the STARS disability ministry at College Church. The proceeds provide recreational, respite, and training opportunities for individuals with intellectual disabilities.

Next year, the race field will be expanded to potentially 1,000 or 1,100 to accommodate the strong runner demand. The race next year is June 9, 2012. For more information, please visit www.runforthestars.com.