McCormick run draws fewer because of rain

About 100 runners braved a downpour of rain to raise money for a local man Sunday during the Mark McCormick Fox River Run.

The 15th annual event, held at Pottawatomie Park in St. Charles, helped raise money for Mark McCormick of St. Charles. The former athlete suffered severe brain injuries 20 years ago after he lost consciousness during dinner and fell onto a tile floor.

The event is co-organized by Sheila McCormick, Mark's mother, and Linda Stuart, both of St. Charles.

"It's wonderful," Linda McCormick said. "They came out in this weather. They're hardy people."

The event included 2-mile, 5K, 8K and 15K runs. The top three winners in each event received a glass penguin trophy, which is Mark McCormick's favorite animal.

Stuart, a close McCormick family friend, said the family needs $3,000 to $4,000 a year for Mark's therapy and specialized equipment. She said the event usually averages about 350 runners a year.

"Because of the weather, we probably only made half of what we need for Mark's care," she said.

Mark McCormick also toughed the rain and unseasonable weather Sunday to sit near the finish line and pose for photos with runners.

He even found the company of old friends like Dan Zeller of Geneva. Zeller attended Niles West High School in Skokie with McCormick, where they ran cross country and track together. Zeller has attended every race for the past 15 years, usually with family, but this year he came alone.

"(I come) for Mark, no matter what," he said. "It's planned a year in advance, and it's for a good cause."

Abraham Munoz of St. Charles also attended the race while trying to get into the Guinness Book of World Records for juggling a soccer ball on his head while running.

Stuart said she hoped everyone who came enjoyed their experience.

"We hope they got a really great family experience," she said. "Because what (this) is all about is family supporting family."