To quote from the website www.milesforjames.com - "James, for whom the group is named, suffered a traumatic brain injury as a result of being struck by a car while jogging on September 19, 2009. Since that day, James has courageously fought his way from an unconscious-comatose-state to his present minimally-functioning-conscious-state."
Probably 99.99% of 5Ks are run for some charitable organization - and one is not better than the other - as they are all good - and all do good. Though, this one hits closer to home for runners more than some other charities. Whether running alone or as part of an organized race, the concern of being hit by a careless and/or distracted driver is ever present, whether crossing a street, passing a driveway, or running alongside a street. There are several charities that benefit from this event, all related to TBI - Traumatic Brain Injury.
Now, this is not meant to be a downer, James himself attends this event
and is there to provide positive support. And all of the race
participants look forward to his arrival and a chance to talk with him.
James isn't the only person who gets attention at this event, Chicago
weatherman Andy Avalos is also present as the host of the event.
The Family Harvest Church in Tinley Park plays the gracious host of the event, which starts (and finishes) in their parking lot. The Church is also kind enough to open their doors for "facilities" instead of the little-blue-buildings runners are too familiar with. This is definitely appreciated by the runners!
This location allows for a backdrop of I-80 and supporting (or just goofy) motorists honking their horns as they go by. The race kicks off in the parking lot and then runs through the nearby subdivisions making several turns throughout. The course is 100% residential and includes a very picturesque view throughout of nice homes, nice trees, and nice landscaping/gardens. The course is about 50% out-and-back and 50% loop. In other words, about 1/2 the course is seen there and back. The home stretch features a gentle downhill leading into the final turn towards the finish line. A perfect way to accelerate and get that great photo-op finish line kick started! There is a little teaser towards the end though, as runners pass the 2.5 mile mark, they can hear the finish line, and just as runners think they are approaching the home stretch, the course veers away from the sounds before heading back.
A very well organized event for a great cause on a comfortable course.
The Family Harvest Church in Tinley Park plays the gracious host of the event, which starts (and finishes) in their parking lot. The Church is also kind enough to open their doors for "facilities" instead of the little-blue-buildings runners are too familiar with. This is definitely appreciated by the runners!
This location allows for a backdrop of I-80 and supporting (or just goofy) motorists honking their horns as they go by. The race kicks off in the parking lot and then runs through the nearby subdivisions making several turns throughout. The course is 100% residential and includes a very picturesque view throughout of nice homes, nice trees, and nice landscaping/gardens. The course is about 50% out-and-back and 50% loop. In other words, about 1/2 the course is seen there and back. The home stretch features a gentle downhill leading into the final turn towards the finish line. A perfect way to accelerate and get that great photo-op finish line kick started! There is a little teaser towards the end though, as runners pass the 2.5 mile mark, they can hear the finish line, and just as runners think they are approaching the home stretch, the course veers away from the sounds before heading back.
A very well organized event for a great cause on a comfortable course.
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