Hanover Township’s ninth annual 5K steps off on May 4

Hanover Township’s ninth annual “Sprint 2 Spring” 5K run/walk will be held at 8 a.m. on Saturday, May 4, at the Hanover Township Izaak Walton Youth Center, 899 Jay St., in Elgin. The race aims to promote health and wellness within the community but will also raise funds for the Hanover Township Foundation in assisting low-income residents in obtaining dental and medical services.

Registration is open now through May 3 online and available in-person the day of the 5K before the race begins. Registration is $35 through May 3 and $40 the day of the race.

Visit sprint2spring.com to register and use the code “SPRING” for $5 off until May 3.

“We are always excited to hold this event that supports our mission of raising health awareness and promoting active lifestyles,” said Kristen Smith, Hanover Township director of Community Health. “We look forward to another successful year and appreciate the continued support and participation from the community.”

Participants can check-in from 6:30 to 7:45 a.m., the day of the event. The 3.1-mile course will take participants through local neighborhood streets of Elgin east of Liberty Street and south of Villa Street. The 5K route will return participants to the Izaak Walton Youth Center. For a complete route map, visit sprint2spring.com.

“Not only is this a great experience for people to get outside and be active, but participants will also be helping their neighbors improve their quality of life with proceeds that support the township’s Dental Access Network program,” said Brian P. McGuire, Hanover Township supervisor. “To date, we have enrolled over 100 residents in this program.”

The township identifies qualifying residents and works with local dentists who provide services at a reduced fee. Since the event began in 2014, over $17,000 has been raised.

Participants are welcome to stay for the post-race party immediately following the race until 10 a.m. Beverages and snacks will be provided as well as music, games, and a bounce house for children.

Packet pick up will be available at the Hanover Township Izaak Walton Center, 899 Jay St., Elgin, on May 3 from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., as well as the morning of the race.

For questions, sponsorship or race information, call the township at (630) 483-5665 or visit the event website at sprint2spring.com.