Light the Torch 5K
In-Person Race: October 1 | 7P | Downtown Wheaton
Virtual Race: October 1-15
Presented in partnership by Wheaton Park District and the FT Cares Foundation
OVERVIEW:
Perfect for the Avid Runner or Team of Walkers
Race through luminary lanes at the Light the Torch 5K Night Run and end with live entertainment, carnival rides, food and beer garden at October Fest hosted by DuPage County Historical Museum! Presented in partnership by the Wheaton Park District and FT Cares Foundation, this 5K run/walk is a unique race through downtown Wheaton after sunset. Come decked out! The more glow, the better. Registration includes a commemorative shirt and glow giveaways. Shirt sizes are first-come, first-served.
Race Route Map
Please check back for the race route to be added.
REGISTER:
Online in-person registration ends Tuesday, September 27 at 11:59P. Registration is available at packet pick-up (September 29) and on race day (October 1) for $40.
Virtual registration is also available through Saturday, October 1 at 11:59P.
Entry fees are non-transferable and non-refundable.
PACKET PICK-UP:
Advance
Thursday, September 29 | 10A-7P
Central Athletic Complex Gym (500 S. Naperville Rd.)
Race Day
Saturday, October 1 | 5-6:45P
Central Athletic Complex Gym (500 S. Naperville Rd.)
In-person registration will be available at packet pick-ups.
TIMING & RESULTS:
Please check back for details to be posted.
QUESTIONS?
What is the Light the Torch 5K?
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 27 at 11:59P. Registration is available at packet pick-up (September 29) and on race day (October 1) for $40. Virtual registration is also available through Saturday, October 1 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 Joe 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 the 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 Joe 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.
When does the race start?
The race will begin at 7P 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! Everyone must register for this race.
When is packet pick-up?
Packet pick-up will be Thursday, September 29 at the Central Athletic Complex Gym (500 S Naperville Rd.), between 10A-7P. If you cannot make the pre-race packet pick-up, racers may check in on Saturday, October 1 from 5:00-6:45P 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.
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.
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 race shirt. Please contact Lisa Weier at lweier@ftportfolios.com
What is a virtual race?
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.
Will virtual runners be allowed to participate in the in-person race?
No. If you would like to transfer to in-person, please email Joe 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 10/15/2022.
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, Carolyn Wilkin at cwilkin@wheatonparks.org or Joseph Viso at jviso@wheatonparks.org.
2019 IMAGE GALLERY:
PARTNER WITH US:
Sponsorship Opportunities
For more information or to partner with us, please contact Margie Wilhelmi at mwilhelmi@wheatonparks.org or 630-510-4984.
SPONSORS:
