The season of 5K races is in full swing.
Unlike many 5K runs on concrete, however, Lake Katherine Nature Center and Botanical Garden Center is hosting its fourth annual 5K Sunday on a dirt, mulch and grass trail at the center, 7402 Lake Katherine Drive in Palos Heights.
The race will kick off promptly at 8 a.m., with registration beginning at 7 a.m.
“The route of the race covers almost all that Lake Katherine has to offer,” said Gareth Blakesley, Lake Katherine’s operation manager. “Competitors get to enjoy a varied and interesting trail from racing past the lake, over grass and woodchip, sprinting up hills and jumping over roots. May is a great time for a run around Lake Katherine. We’re also in the midst of the spring bird migration, with a variety of birds passing through.”
Pre-registration is $25 for adults (15 years and older) and $15 for those younger than 15 on race day. The fee is $5 more for adults who register on the day of the event. Last year’s 5K, which took place on a rainy morning, raised $4,730, an amount the center is hoping to beat this year.
Proceeds from the race will go toward children’s programs, ecological restoration and animal care at Lake Katherine.
“The proceeds help us in our restoration efforts and to continue to offer our education programs,” Blakesley said.
Last year’s event gathered 100 runners. This year, the center is hoping for better weather and more runners — surpassing last year’s number by an additional hundred runners, according to Ward.
“We started the 5K to get people outside and to encourage them to be active,” said Charlotte Ward, Lake Katherine’s marketing coordinator. “It is a great way to get out there and realize that spring has arrived. The course takes faster runners between 18 and 22 minutes to finish, with walkers taking about an hour.”
The race will recognize the top three male and female runners overall and the additional top three runners in each of the following age groups: 14 and under; 15-19; 20-29; 30-39; 40-49; 50-59; 60-69; 70 and over.
“This is a great opportunity to get fit for the summer and get the endorphins going,” Ward said. “That experience is enhanced further with the feeling of well-being runners get as they race through the peaceful scenery of Lake Katherine’s park and botanic gardens.”
Runners can register in person at the center or online at www.signmeup.com/site/online-event-registration/112837.
Kelly White is a freelance reporter for the Daily Southtown.