McKendree's Harvest Challenge Road Race is For Adults and Kids
5K or Half-Marathon for Adults, 1K Fun Run for Kids on Sept. 12
(LEBANON, Ill., May 14, 2015) - Runners and walkers of all ages can take to the streets
of Lebanon, Ill., for McKendree University’s annual “Harvest Challenge” road race
and “Kids’ K” fun run on Saturday, Sept. 12.
Adult competitors can choose between 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 rural northern
St. Clair and southern Madison counties before returning to McKendree.
The “Kids’ K,” 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 run-walk only.
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 and half-marathoners
will receive “performance” T-shirts while supplies last. Medals and trophies go to
age group and overall winners. The Race Day staff will also provide post-race refreshments.
All half marathoners receive “Finisher” medals. The “Kids’ K” fee is $5 and includes
a bib number and a 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. 8.
The McKendree “Harvest Challenge” is one of 14 sanctioned St. Clair County “Get Up
& Go!” Cup events.
For more information, call 618-537-6420 or 618-537-6941 or visit mckendree.edu/raceday.
-McK-
