More than 1,000 runners, walkers and joggers took to the streets of Downtown Naperville during the 15th Annual St. Paddy’s Day 5K, held just before the community’s West Suburban Irish St Patrick’s Day Parade.
Hosted by the Rotary Club of Naperville Sunrise, the run was sponsored by Naperville Running Company and Gerald Cares.
The top three overall male runners were Alex Danner, Darren Barlow, and Zach Hird. Danner finished the race in 14:29.
Top overall female runners were Kristin Dailey, Brittany Matteson, and Julia Ordzowaily.
Runners ranged in age from under 6 to over 75. Several families with babies in strollers also took part.
Plenty of green could be seen as participants were encouraged to dress up to salute the almost spring holiday.
Beneficiaries from this year’s event are NAMI DuPage’s Ending the Silence, Samaracare Mental Health Access and West Suburban Community Pantry’s Child Nutrition Programs.
Rotarian and Event Chairman Ryan Siebert views the race as the unofficial start of spring.
“There’s great energy and people who’ve been cooped up all winter love to come out and share this festive atmosphere,” Siebert noted. “Best of all, we raise money for deserving charities that support the people of our community. We love that.”
With the fun run behind them, Sunrise Rotarians now are gearing up for the 27th Rotary Ride, presented by DiGioviine Hnilo Jordan + Johnson Ltd. in memory of Carmen DiGiovine. First started in 1997, the 2024 Bike Ride is set for Sun., Aug. 11, beginning and ending at Commissioners Park. 3704 111th Street.
For info, maps with routes and registration, visit napervillerotaryride.com.
