MLK Jr Freedom Run 5K/10K/13.1 CHICAGO/EVANSTON

Join in our annual Martin Luther King Jr. Day Run! Today, we gather to honor the legacy of Dr. King and his enduring commitment to justice, equality, and peace. As we lace up our shoes and hit the pavement, let’s reflect on his powerful message of love and resilience.

This event is not just about fitness; it’s a celebration of community, a call to action for social change, and a reminder of the work still to be done. Together, we can honor Dr. King’s dream and inspire one another to continue striving for a better world. Let’s run with purpose and passion!

Overview:
Run will sell-out QUICK! We will close off waves the moment they fill up. If waves are sold out, you can sign-up for the virtual run option or wait list.

This is a smaller, private group run with a cap per wave. 

All paces and ages (under 18 with guardian) are welcome - Run or Walk!  

There's no equipment or setup, this is a pure run with our coordinators to support you!

When you sign-up, we give you the support you need to help you achieve your goals and fitness. 

Timing:

- Timing is Optional: You may track your time on an app (Strava, RunKeeper, Nike Run, etc) and submit your times with our easy form to be posted online. Or you can ask our coordinators to help keep track of your time. 

- No timing chips (This is a stress free run to support you in achieving your goals)!

What You Get (Swag Bag):

- Running T-Shirt (Shipped to the address you register with - US only)

- Finisher's Towel or Giveaway

- Finisher's Medal! (Shipped - Email us after the run)

- Training Pack & Free Giveaways

- (Optional) Online Results & Certificate of Completion

- (Optional) We now have Technical Running Shirts. These lightweight, moisture wicking shirts can be upgraded for just $5 more. 

- (Optional) Custom Marble Plaque/Award - Custom Marble Plaque for just $15 more

- (Optional) Join our new Running Club Near You! As a paid club member, you can participate in any 3 of our races throughout one year (any location) after you sign-up and get Custom Swag. If you want to purchase Swag, you can also visit our Online Store at: https://www.etsy.com/shop/TheBestRacesSwag.

Packet Pickup:

No hassle of picking up packets required!

-Swag shipped direct to your address (Please make sure you provide your full, correct US mailing address including apartment number and check spelling)

- Race bibs are provided on race day

When will I get my Swag?

You will get your shirt at your mailing address the week of your race.

Race Updates:

We will email you a final update the Wednesday before the race with final details and course maps.

Do you accept last minute registrations? (For those signing up 2 weeks before the race)

Yes, but please note that it takes time for us to ship your shirt. Your shirt will likely arrive after the run. You can wear any shirt you find appropriate to run the race! 
 
Wave Times: (Email Us Your Desired Wave Time: info@thebestraces.com)
(Waves filled on a First Come, First Serve Basis)
Wave A: 7:30AM
Wave B: 8:00AM
Wave C: 8:30AM

Late runners can run upon arrival (Please note our coordinators stay until 2.5 hours after the first wave)

Virtual Run Option:
- Our Virtual Run uniquely offers a Training Pack with Digital Tools to support your run. 

Virtual runs can be done any time and place of your choosing using any tracking device (optional). After you finish, you can submit your results to info@thebestraces.com to receive your medal! 

Race Bundle:

Sign-up for more races and get a discount! We'll send you your shirts for each race together. If you complete 3 of our runs, we'll send you a Custom Runner Marble Plaque (in lieu of the 2nd/3rd Medal)!

Gift Certificates: Gift a race to a friend or family member on a beautiful Gift Voucher. Just email us at info@thebestraces.com or purchase in store. 

Sponsorships & Promoting your Business:

If you're looking to become a sponsor, we'd love showcase your business!
https://www.thebestraces.com/events

Team Glo Volunteers:

If you're interested in helping put on runs for the Community and helping people achieve their goals, we invite you to join our team of volunteers, fill out the form here: https://www.thebestraces.com/volunteer-form/

Run for Others: Make a Difference

Our 4 core fundraising themes are: Cancer, Water, Education, & Other Causes. These core values drive our mission and shape our approach to fundraising, ensuring that every effort contributes to a more equitable and hopeful world.

If you’re a Non-Profit or an individual wanting to work together, feel free to contact us for more information at contact@thebestraces.com. Or find out more at www.thebestracesjourney.com.