Huntley Rotary Club's second annual Running with the Elves was a success

Miles Dill of South Elgin and Emma James of Genoa, both 14 years old, were the top runners at the second annual Running of the Elves 5K on Saturday, Dec. 2.

Dill's time was 20:46.6 and James clocked in at 22.32.7 at the 5K event, a part of the village of Huntley's holiday event, A Very Merry Huntley.

A total of 130 participants ran, walked, and the youngsters enjoyed a dash starting at downtown Huntley Square.

A Kris Kringle Market and cookie walk started the day that included live reindeer, carols, complimentary hot chocolate, a community pasta dinner, and fireworks.

Many participants wore their Elf T-shirts and Elf hats while many chose to wear their own Elf creations, including Scott and Jodi Iddings of Huntley, both entering times of under 23 minutes.

Mild weather, great people, and wonderful outfits made for a successful and joyful event.

Running of the Elves was sponsored by the Rotary Club of Huntley and chaired by club president Jim Uszler. Miss Mississippi Annie Kemps assisted with awards and announcements while community residents and businesspeople participated in the races and volunteered along the course. Proceeds will help community projects and high school scholarships.

The club wishes to thank Running of the Elves sponsors including DeFiore Funeral & Cremation Service, Gerber Collision and Glass, and Pickle Haus, plus Main Street Bicycle of Carpentersville,state Rep. Steve Reick, Edward Jones/Bob Gajewski, American Community Bank, Northwest Medicine Kids Zone, and Century 21 New Heritage/Bob Panek.

A Very Merry Huntley and Running of the Elves will return the first Saturday of December 2024.

For more information, contact HuntleyRotary.org.