Smith Physical Therapy + Running to host two races this summer in Crystal Lake

After a year of uncertainty, delays, and cancellations, two iconic, local races are back - the Crystal Lake Aquathon on Sunday, Aug. 1, and the Crystal Lake Half Marathon on Sunday, Sept. 5.

Both races are held in Crystal Lake and showcase some of the most beautiful scenery, historic landmarks and iconic treasures the area has to offer.

Crystal Lake Aquathon

Race director Denise Smith announced that the fourth annual Crystal Lake Aquathon on Aug. 1 will once again support Girls on the Run of Northwest Illinois. The event will be hosted at the Three Oaks Recreation Area and include three timed options:

• Olympic Distance (1 mile swim, 10k run);

• Sprint Distance (500 m swim, 5k run);

• Iron Distance Swim (2 mile swim only).

There will be Kids Race consisting of a 250-meter swim and a 1-mile run for young athletes, ages 7-12, who would like to try their first endurance event. Additionally, the event will feature an Adaptive Race as a one-mile swim only; swimmers will be allowed physical support from their own family/friends only for protection of the racers and volunteers. Lifeguards will be in the water with the swimmers for safety; swim angels will be available, providing encouragement for the kids.

The open swim portion of the event takes place in a modified quarry. The running course combines a variety of surfaces including trails, sand, and pavement. Smith says "We are blessed to have the wonderful facility of Three Oaks Recreational Area within McHenry County to be used by endurance athletes. It offers a great opportunity for an open water swim and the trails and hills make the run fun and challenging."

Awards will be given to overall male and female finishers in each event. All youth participating in the Kids Race will receive a finisher's metal.

Proceeds from this race go to support Girls on the Run of Northwest Illinois. Laurie Dayon, executive director of GOTR says, "Girls on the Run is excited to again be part of the Crystal Lake Aquathon. Our community consistently shows up for our kids and this is no different. When you sign up to participate in the Aquathon, you essentially are helping a young girl have access to programming that will help build her confidence during critical years. We are incredible grateful for the support we receive from the Crystal Lake Aquathon."

For all races, current local and state COVID-19 policies and procedures will be in place. Only 200 spots are available for the race (with the exception of the Kids' Race). Race waves will be staggered to allow for safe participation and social distancing.

Volunteer and sponsorship opportunities are also available. For more information, visit www.smithptrun.com/events/ or www.facebook.com/claquathon/ .

Crystal Lake Half Marathon

Smith Physical Therapy + Running Academy and Race Production by Trudy are excited to bring back the Crystal Lake Half Marathon for the second year. The Crystal Lake Half Marathon on Sunday, Sept. 5, will feature a point-to-point route with starting-line transportation, aid stations and an after party to benefit The BREAK Crystal Lake Teen Center.

Runners will enjoy the sites of Crystal Lake Illinois with the start at iconic Crystal Lake Main Beach, a loop around Lippold Park, a view of the Dole Mansion, a jaunt down the Prairie Path, and finish up in downtown Crystal Lake.

At the Main Beach start line, racers will have access to restrooms, areas for stretching, and talking over race strategy with pals. Gear check will be on site and will transport your gear back to the finish line. Over the 13.1 mile course, there will be hydration stations every 1½ miles, multiple restrooms available, and ample space for spectators and supporters to cheer along their favorite racers.

Every Crystal Lake Half Marathon finisher will receive a custom Crystal Lake Half Marathon medal. The overall male and female winners will be awarded. A post-race party to support The BREAK Teen Center will be held after the race. The mission of The BREAK Crystal Lake Teen Center is "To provide area teenagers a safe and stimulating environment for forming connections, having fun, and finding acceptance among peers and adults throughout the community."

Current local and state COVID-19 policies and procedures will be in place for the half marathon and after party. Race waves will be staggered to allow for safe participation and social distancing.

Race directors Denise Smith of Smith Physical Therapy + Running Academy and Trudy Wakeman of Race Production by Trudy, are welcoming the community's involvement in this race; volunteer and sponsorship opportunities can be found on www.smithptrun.com/events/ or www.facebook.com/clhalfmarathon/.