Sign up by Oct. 3 for 7th annual Light the Torch 5K in Wheaton

Things continue to look different as we navigate the COVID-19 crisis, but a little normalcy will return with the Virtual Light the Torch 5K Oct. 3-17.

The race, presented by the Wheaton Park District and FT Cares Foundation, will celebrate its seventh year in 2020.

"The charitable organizations that benefit from this race need our help more than ever. Continuing to do what we can to raise these funds means the nonprofits we support can continue their missions in these difficult times," says Lisa Weier, Director of Development of FT Cares Foundations, the charitable arm of First Trust Portfolios in Wheaton.

"We wish we could be together in person, at night, enjoying the glow elements, laser light show, luminary lanes, and DJ entertainment as in years past," says Weier.

The Restore Illinois Phase 4 Guidelines still prohibit gatherings of more than 50 people for an event.

Participation is easy, and there is still fun to be had. Racers receive a commemorative tech race shirt mailed to their home following the event. Also, when runners finish the self-timed 5K route of their choice (or on a treadmill of their choice) any time between Oct. 3 and 17, they can log their time to print their finisher certificate.

Event coordinators plan to include a fun glow item and a few other giveaways in the mailed racer packets.

Registration is currently open for both individuals and teams of four or more. Race registration closes Oct. 3.

Several Wheaton Warrenville Unit District 200 Parent Teacher Associations have discount codes that not only lower the race fees but raise money for the school PTAs in the process. Discount codes are available at www.facebook.com/RaceWheaton or by visiting wheatonparkdistrict.com/lightthetorch for more information.

"This race is about giving back. COVID-19 is not going to stop our mission to raise awareness and funding for charities locally, nationally, and globally," says Race Director Amy Seklecki of the Wheaton Park District.

A portion of proceeds from this year's virtual race will benefit the local District 200 PTAs, FT Cares Foundation, Cosley Zoo, DuPage County Historical Museum, and Play For All Playground and Garden Foundation.

For additional information and details, visit wheatonparkdistrict.com/lightthetorch or email Race Director, Amy Seklecki, at aseklecki@wheatonparks.org.