Wheaton Reindeer Run 5K expected to attract hundreds
Wheaton residents may see a flurry of reindeer and Santa look-alikes sprint by their windows on the morning of Saturday, Dec. 7.
The Wheaton Lions Club and the Wheaton Park District are co-sponsoring the second annual Reindeer Run 5K, a brisk winter fun run. Organizers say the race, which steps off at 8:30 a.m., is a great opportunity to get active and spread a little holiday cheer.
Proceeds will benefit several causes, including the DuPage County Historical Museum and Lions Club charities.
“It’s all about community involvement,” event coordinator Dan Novak said. “This event brings people to Wheaton because of its unique appeal. And that’s a really positive thing for the organizations putting on this event and for Wheaton businesses.”
Race director Stephanie Taylor agrees.
“The best part about this race is that it attracts runners with varying skill levels. Some of them are there for a really competitive race. Others simply want to have a fun time dressing up and jogging or walking through Wheaton. Either way, every participant can enjoy themselves and have fantastic morning.”
The race is CARA certified.
Advance registration is $25 and available online at www.active.com until Tuesday, Dec. 3. Pre-race packet pickup will be from noon to 8 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 5, at the Wheaton Park District Community Center, 1777 S. Blanchard Road.
Registration on the day of the race will be $35. Race-day packet pickup will be available from 7:15 to 8 a.m. in front of the DuPage County Historical Museum. In case of inclement weather, pickup will be inside the museum.
Shirts will be provided for the first 750 registrants. The course is a USATF-certified and will wind through downtown Wheaton. Awards will be given to overall male and female winners and the top three finishers in each age division.
Runners (and children) can stop by the face-painting table for a free Rudolph nose on race day. For those in the mood to have a little fun while they run, reindeer antlers will be available for purchase while supplies last.
For questions or to volunteer on the day of the event, contact Taylor at (630) 510-4989 or staylor@wheatonparks.org