McKendree’s Harvest Challenge Road Race Adds a 'Kids' K'

Annual 5K or Half-Marathon for Adults, 1K Fun Run on Sept. 6

Lebanon, Ill. - A one-kilometer children’s fun run is a new addition to McKendree University’s “Harvest Challenge” road race on Saturday, Sept. 6 in Lebanon, Ill. Adult competitors can choose their distance, a 5K run-walk or a half-marathon run.

Start time for the 5K (3.1 miles) and 13.1 mile-races is 8 a.m., after a pre-race briefing at 7:40 a.m. Both courses begin at the center of campus and travel through historic downtown Lebanon and the surrounding area. The 5K route then goes north to Horner Park and returns to the finish line on campus. The half-marathon winds through the scenic farmland of rural northern St. Clair and southern Madison Counties before returning to McKendree.

The “Kids’ K” option, for children ages 12 and under not entered in a longer race, will start at 8:50 a.m. at the Harvest Challenge finish line. The 1K (1,000 meters or .62 mile) run or walk will make a loop and return to the finish line chute.

Walkers and strollers are welcome to participate in the 5K or the 1K.

Medals will be awarded in six age categories to the top three male and female finishers of each race, with trophies to the overall winners.

“Our race has become a popular training opportunity for runners who will compete in the Chicago Marathon in October,” said Kim Smallheer, McKendree director of recreational programs and organizer of the Harvest Challenge. Last year’s event drew nearly 300 participants.

The fee is $15 for the 5K and $33 for the half-marathon ($20 or $40 respectively on race day). The 5K participants will receive three-quarter sleeve T-shirts, while half-marathoners will receive long-sleeve “performance” T-shirts and finisher medals. Post-race refreshments will be provided while supplies last. The “Kids’ K” fee is $5 and includes a bib number and runner’s medal. Register in person on campus at the intramural gym inside the Melvin Price Convocation Center on Alton St.; or download and mail in the form on the website mckendree.edu/raceday. Online registration is also available (for a small fee) at active.com. Mailed entries must be postmarked by Sept. 2.

The McKendree “Harvest Challenge” is one of 13 sanctioned St. Clair County “Get Up & Go!” Cup events.

For more information, call (618) 537-6420 or (618) 537-6941 or visit www.mckendree.edu/raceday.

 

-McK-