Run Morton Arboretum 10K

You can run for a greener, healthier, more beautiful world this spring during the Morton Arboretum's sixth annual 10K race.

With a new name, the Champion of Trees 10K is the arboretum's first nod to the start of spring, taking participants on a challenging and scenic run through the arboretum's grounds at 4100 Route 53, Lisle.

On the USATF-certified course, race participants will pass by the maples and oaks of the East Woods and alongside the ginkgo trees that grow in the arboretum's collection of trees from China and Japan.

The race will be followed by a party featuring a photo booth, food specials and live music from Run Forrest Run, along with a complimentary beer for each participant. Participants are invited to spend the day at the arboretum following the run.

Registration and packet pickup begins at 6:30 a.m. Sunday, April 24, with the race stepping off at 8 a.m. and an awards ceremony at 9:15 a.m. Runners receive a short-sleeve T-shirt, recovery food and admission to the arboretum.

"The Champion of Trees 10K is a unique opportunity to run through one of the suburbs' most scenic courses while supporting the Morton Arboretum's tree-focused conservation and research programs," said Diana Fischer-Woods, special events coordinator.

"We invite everyone to run for a greener world, stay and enjoy the post-race festivities, then explore the arboretum."

Runners will wear the latest in race-timing technology, the Chronotrack B-Tag system. The top male and female overall finishers will receive a gift certificate for a pair of shoes from Dick Pond Athletics. The top three men and women in the designated age groups will receive medals.

Register in person, at mortonarb.org or by mail postmarked by Wednesday, April 10. The cost, including admission, is $35 for members and $40 for others, which includes admission to the arboretum following the race. Race-day registration is $45 and spots may be limited.

The registration fee is nonrefundable and any cancellation will be considered a donation to the Morton Arboretum. A special new member offer includes race registration, plus a discounted one-year individual membership to the arboretum, for $83.