Light the Torch 5K
In-Person Race: Saturday, October 2 | 6:30P | Central Athletic Complex
Virtual Race: October 2-October 16
Presented in partnership by Wheaton Park District and the FT Cares Foundation
OVERVIEW:
Perfect for the Avid Runner or Team of Walkers
This 5K run is perfect for the avid runner or team of walkers. Activities and fun kick-off at October Fest at 4:30P and the run starts at 6:30P, going through downtown Wheaton and featuring luminary lanes and glow/reflector giveaways. The race ends with a laser light show for all. The public is welcome to join us for the free after-party event.
A portion of proceeds benefits FT Cares Foundation and its mission of transforming lives.
Race Route Map
TIMING & RESULTS:
OVERALL WINNERS AND AGE DIVISION AWARDS
Awards may be picked up at Parks Plus Fitness Center (1777 S. Blanchard St.) starting Tuesday, October 5, from 9A-5P. Awards will not be mailed.
VIRTUAL RUNNERS
Commemorative race shirts will be available to pick up at Parks Plus Fitness Center (1777 S. Blanchard St.) starting Tuesday, October 5, from 9A-5P. Times can be logged and race certificates downloaded at runsignup.com
There will be awards for top finishers in their age category as well as top 3 overall. The age categories for male and female are: 14 & under, 15-19, 20-24, 25-29, 30-34, 35-39, 40-44, 45-49, 50-54, 55-59, 60-64, 65-69, 70 & up.
REGISTER:
Registration is now closed for the in-person and virtual races.
QUESTIONS?
Light the Torch 5K is a fun run/walk provided to you by the Wheaton Park District and the FT Cares Foundation. We provide the fun, you provide the light! This 5K night run is perfect for the avid runner or the casual walker. Although this race is a fun run, it is also a timed event.
Who does this race benefit?
A portion of the proceeds from this race will support FT Cares Foundation and its mission of transforming lives. We strive to light the way to transform lives, locally, nationally, and globally!
Registration and Entry Fee
Online in-person registration ends Tuesday, September 28 at 11:59P. Registration is available at packet pick-up (September 30) and on race day (October 2) for $40. Virtual registration is also available through Saturday, October 2 at 11:59P. Entry fees are non-transferable and non-refundable.
Will virtual runners be allowed to participate in the in-person race?
No. If you would like to transfer to in-person, please email Joseph Viso at jviso@wheatonparks.org.
What should I wear?
Participants are encouraged to dress comfortably, and OF COURSE bring some light (suggestions: glow necklaces, reflectors, headlamps, costumes, etc.). We will be providing participants with glow giveaways, but why not bring more! Also, all runners will receive a collectible run shirt.
Since this is a timed event, will there be awards given at the end of the race?
There will be awards for top finishers in their age category as well as top 3 overall.
The age categories for male and female are: 14 & under, 15-19, 20-24, 25-29, 30-34, 35-39, 40-44, 45-49, 50-54, 55-59, 60-64, 65-69, 70 & up.
Can my pet participate?
Pets are NOT permitted in this race. Please contact Race Directors Michelle Artis at martis@wheatonparks.org or Joseph Viso at jviso@wheatonparks.org if you need to make arrangements with a service animal. Cases need to be reviewed before the race.
Can I run with a stroller?
Strollers are not encouraged but may participate if they wait until the last wave. Strollers at the beginning of the wave will be asked to go to the last wave.
What is the race route?
Check out this year’s route here
When does the race start?
The race will begin at 6:30P but the fun ignites prior to the race with activities, music and fun! Stay after the race for a laser light show and October Fest presented by the DuPage County Historical Museum.
Is there an age limit?
All ages are encouraged to participate in this night run!
When is packet pick-up?
Packet pick-up will be Thursday, September 30 between 10A-7P. If you cannot make the pre-race packet pick-up, racers may check-in on Saturday, October 2 from 4:30-6:15P in the Central Athletic Complex Gym (500 S Naperville Rd.). Race day registration will be $40 per runner.
Is there a waiver?
Every participant will be required to sign a waiver when registering online. For those under the age of 18, a parent or guardian must sign the waiver.
Not a walker or runner? VOLUNTEER! We need lots of volunteers to help us light the way.
Volunteers are essential to the success of the race. All volunteers receive a short sleeve t-shirt. Please contact Lisa Weier at lweier@ftportfolios.com.
What if there’s inclement weather?
This race will happen rain or shine! The run committee will continue to monitor the weather and follow the proper protocol in place regarding inclement weather including but not limited to thunderstorms, tornadoes and heat. The run committee holds the right to cancel, alter or postpone the event due to inclement weather.
Any changes related to event status will be communicated here as well as on our Facebook page.
A virtual race is self-timed and can be completed by participants on their favorite outdoor run/walk route or on a treadmill. There is no official race route or start time.
Is there a virtual race course?
There is no official race course. Runners/walkers may select their own 5K routes or may complete their registered distance on a treadmill. Runners/walkers are asked to select a route that will allow them to maintain the recommended social distancing guidelines.
Will virtual runners be allowed to participate in the in-person race?
No. If you would like to transfer to in-person, please email Joseph Viso at jviso@wheatonparks.org.
Virtual race timing
The virtual Light the Torch 5K Night Run is self-timed. To have your time included in the race results, runners/walkers must submit their results by the end of the day on 10/16/2021.
Recording/Posting race results
Race results are recorded by the runner/walker directly on the registration website by logging in with the email address and password used for race registration. Participants can also email their time to jviso@wheatonparks.org. If emailing your time, please be sure to include your name, distance and time (hour, minutes, seconds).
Further Questions
For more information and further questions please contact Race Directors, Michelle Artis at martis@wheatonparks.org or Joseph Viso at jviso@wheatonparks.org.
2019 IMAGE GALLERY:
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