Approximately 3,000 people took to the streets of Highland Park on Sunday for the North Shore Classic Half Marathon, 5K and Kids Dash.
The bib-chipped, timed event brought participants from 26 states and territories and 8 countries through city neighborhoods.
Participants passed through Ravinia, along Lake Michigan, and by historic sites in Fort Sheridan, a former U.S. Army post dating to the 1800s.
The races started at the corner of St. Johns and Central avenues, with the finish line at St. Johns Avenue and Elm Place.
There was a post-race picnic nearby in The Lot with live music, grilled food and beverages.
According to event organizers, the North Shore Classic was established in 1981.
“The race was renamed to Highland Park Strong in 2022 to honor the community in the aftermath of the Highland Park tragedy,” the event website said, in reference to the Independence Day mass shooting that year.
“By returning to the North Shore Classic, we are renewing our commitment to supporting runners from across the region, uniting neighboring communities in a shared spirit of resilience and connection,” the website said.
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Dan Lakin, executive race director with Ventures Endurance based in Buffalo Grove, said the logo was changed to reflect the memories of the victims of the July 4, 2022, parade shooting.
Seven leaves are now a part of the logo in honor of those killed: Katie Goldstein, Irina McCarthy, Kevin Michael McCarthy, Stephen Straus, Jacki Lovi Sundheim, Nicolás Toledo and Eduardo Uvaldo.
“It is about celebrating community,” Lakin said. “What happened in 2022, I think, reminded us of how important that was. It’s a beloved tradition. It’s been a staple here on the North Shore for so long. It’s such a highlight.”
This is the fourth year the Highland Park Community Foundation has been the beneficiary of the race, according to foundation executive director Terri Olian.
“We support organizations and programs that address the unmet needs of our community and expand opportunities for all Highland Park and Highwood residents,” the foundation’s website says.
Thousands of dollars from the race have been raised for the foundation in recent years.
“The North Shore Classic is such a special community tradition because it brings people together around both wellness and generosity,” Olian said. “We are incredibly grateful to everyone participating and supporting this year’s event, which ultimately helps strengthen and improve lives throughout our community.”
William Hague of Chicago finished the half-marathon with a time of 1:06. Paul Neely of Chicago was the first person to cross the finish line of the 5K with a time of 17:46.
“It feels really good,” Neely said. “I got to break the tape, so it was fun.”