ASM races have fun themes, benefit charities

Since 2004, Adrenaline Sports Management, based in downtown Palatine, has grown into a highly reputable race industry contender. By the end of 2017, ASM will have produced 14 races that are owned by the company, and managed eight others. ASM races are held in Palatine, Chicago, and across the country.

The racing industry is a competitive one, according to ASM founder Aaron Del Mar, who says that fact is one of the reasons his company ultimately found success.

"If you're going to survive in this industry, you need to distinguish yourself," Del Mar said. "We've created a niche market that takes a healthy activity and turns it into a unique, social experience that all ages can enjoy and participate in."

So, what makes ASM's events unique?

All of the 5Ks and half marathons created and produced by ASM have a special theme - and each of them has a charitable cause that they benefit. Below is a list of the upcoming local events in the Chicago area:

• The first Uncle Sam 5K and Little Patriot's Dash will be held July 2 during the Palatine Hometown Fest celebration. The course starts and ends at Tap House Grill, and will circle around the historic downtown Palatine neighborhoods. Participants receive an Uncle Sam shirt and hat - and red, white and blue will be everywhere to honor Independence Day. Learn more at http://unclesam5k.com.

The charity beneficiary is Fathers Helping Fathers, a national nonprofit that provides support and education to fathers to be the best parent they can be for their children. http://fathershelpingfathers.com.

• Stan's Donut 5K and Kid's Dash is happening on the paths of Chicago's Montrose Harbor Saturday Aug. 12. Iconic Stan's Donuts will be providing its boutique doughnuts to participants before, during and after the race. This way, those who indulge can feel like they worked the doughnuts off.

Participants receive a Donut Dash dri-fit shirt, a finisher's medal (shaped like a doughnut) and a Stan's Donut at the finish line. Learn more at donut5k.com.

The charity beneficiary is the Greater Chicago Food Depository, which partners with food pantries, soup kitchens, shelters and resources for children, older adults and veterans. This network distributes food where it is needed most throughout Cook County. Visit www.chicagosfoodbank.org/

• The 12th annual Halloween Hustle Run/Walk and Little Monster Dash has expanded from its Palatine roots. This race was the first for ASM back in 2005, and has since grown to include thousands of individuals who wear their Halloween costumes as they participate in the 5K and Little Monsters' Dash, which will be Saturday, Oct. 28.

Participants receive a long-sleeve Halloween Hustle dri-fit shirt and a finisher's medal. Kids Dash participants receive a youth T-shirt, a trick-or-treat bag, a race bib and a pumpkin at the finish line. Learn more at halloween5k.com. The race started in Palatine and has now expanded to events in Madison, Wisconsin and Sandusky/Cedar Point, Ohio.

• The Santa Hustle Race Series first started at Chicago's Soldier Field in 2008 with 1,200 runners. The 2016 race grew to nearly 8,000. The race series includes 5Ks and half marathons (depending on the location) produced in the U.S. that include Sevierville, Tennessee; Indianapolis, Indiana; Sandusky, Ohio; Milwaukee, Wisconsin; Galveston, Texas; South Portland, Maine; and Glendale, Arizona, in addition to a Virtual Race for those who are unable to physically participate.

What sets the Santa Hustle races apart are the many amenities and special touches, including holiday music and cookie and candy stations throughout the course, live reindeers and [volunteer] elves. Each participant receives a Santa hat and beard, along with a Santa Hustle shirt and, new this year, holiday-themed stockings. Learn more at www.santahustle.com.

The Chicago Santa Hustle charity beneficiary is the American Cancer Society, which saves lives and creates a world with less cancer and more birthdays by helping people stay well, helping people get well, by finding cures, and by fighting back. Visit www.cancer.org.

For a listing of all the ASM events this year, in addition to volunteer, charity beneficiary and sponsorship opportunities, visit www.adrenalinesportsmanagement.com or call (847) 829-4536.