The Morton Arboretum is debuting its first-ever endurance challenge in May
during National Physical Fitness and Sports Month. The Firefly
Race Series starts on
May 3 with a 3K fun run and walk at sunset, followed by a post-race glow party.
The challenge continues on May 4 with a 10K race along a USATF-certified course
through the Arboretum’s rolling terrain.
“This is the
Arboretum’s first endurance challenge and one of the few two-day
race series hosted in Illinois,” said
Arboretum Special Event Planner Kate
Fitzgerald. “The 3K is an approachable race for beginners, and a great warm-up
to the more challenging 10K course for more seasoned competitors and those
training for half or full marathons.”
The 3K sunset run and walk at 7:30 p.m. is an after-hours
Arboretum
experience that concludes with a neon-themed, deejayed post-race party under
the stars, with snacks and refreshments from local establishments Bubblehouse
Brewing and Go Brewing. The 10K race at 8 a.m. winds through woodlands,
marshes, lakes, prairie and ornamental tree collections famous for their floral
displays.
Registration includes Arboretum admission, a Firefly
Race Series finisher sticker for all finishers, a neon quarter-zip pullover for
the 10K and a long-sleeve T-shirt for the 3K, and a free alcoholic or
nonalcoholic beverage from Bubblehouse Brewing or Go Brewing.
Cost: 3K is $50 for members and $55 for guests; 10K is $60 for members
and $65 for guests. Registration for both races is discounted at $95 for
members and $105 for guests through April 23. Virtual participation options are
also available at $40 for members and $45 for guests for the 3K; $50 for members
and $55 for guests for the 10K; and discounted through April 23 at $80 for
members and $90 for guests for both races. To register, visit MortonArb.org.
