Featured Running Event of the Week - Essence of Freedom 5k/10k

Seeing how today is Memorial Day, it seems only fitting that the Featured Running Event should be a Memorial Day Tribute event.

This race takes place on Memorial Day morning in Deerfield, IL.  It is a 5k/10k run/walk event.  The 5k and the 10k start at the same time.  For the most part, the 10k runners run the 5k loop twice, but with a little "kickout" to make up for the fact they don't run the "finish line chute" twice.  The entire route is through an established neighborhood with plenty of trees for shade and established homes to look at for scenery.  There is even a portion of the course that runs next to an open field, almost making the runners feel as though they are out in the country.  The neighborhood has several rolling hills, nothing too steep, but if feels as if the entire race is going uphill or downhill.  The roads are well paved and there are no ankle-twisters on the course.

The runner's village takes place in a rather large parking lot and has a silent auction, race-day registration, athletic stretching, dog adoption agency, a DJ, and an "American breakfast" which consisted of quite a large variety of hot foods.  In addition, the finish line "runner's refresh" also had water and bananas and orange slices.  Participants would not go thirsty or hungry.

The finish line itself is in the parking lot, as runners make a 90 degree turn for a short 10 yard sprint, which is actually kinda cool, because of the layout, finishers and spectators are there at the finish line to encourage people as they approach.

In addition to the 5k and 10k, there is also a Memorial Parade leading down the main road from runner's village to the cemetery.  This is led by the Rolling Thunder motorcycle club. 

Speaking of which, Rolling Thunder led the runners at the start of the race, and eventually took up volunteer positions on the course to help direct runner traffic and provide runner safety from car traffic. 

A very will organized event with a well marked course.  And a great cause, with proceeds going to the SOS Freedom 501c3 charity (SOS = Support Or Soldiers).

The importance of the day was not lost in the event, as a matter of fact, at all times Memorial Day was the primary focus, with the race being secondary.  There were runners with flags, active military runners and volunteers, charitable giving opportunities, and of course a great rendition of the National Anthem. 

We run, because others have fought for our right to participate in such events.