What Is Solidarity Sidekick?
Solidarity Sidekick is the statewide movement supporting Enric Casacuberta’s solo run down Route 66 to raise awareness for ALS. Every participant becomes a “Sidekick” — running 6.6K and joining Enric in person for his first two miles in each Illinois town. Each town was designated by Enric as his daily start point based on the mileage he plans to complete. The 18 Illinois stops follow the historic Route 66 corridor, connecting communities through movement, wellness, and purpose.
Who Is Enric Casacuberta
Enric Casacuberta is a runner from Spain completing a once‑in‑a‑lifetime challenge: running the entire 2,400+ miles of Route 66 solo to raise awareness for ALS. He carries the names of people affected by ALS, shares their stories, and uses his journey to spotlight the need for research, support, and hope. Illinois is the longest stretch of his run — and every Spirits Run event helps amplify his mission.
About the 18 stop series
The Solidarity Sidekick Down Route 66 Series includes 18 stops across Illinois, each located in a historic Route 66 town. The stops follow the original Mother Road path — from Chicago to the Chain of Rocks Bridge — creating a statewide adventure lets us join Enric on his Route 66 run. Are you ready to wake up and Run with Enric for 18 days?
Solidarity Sidekick Rewards
🏅 One Medal Per Participant
Every participant receives one glow‑in‑the‑dark medal shaped like the state of Illinois. You do not earn additional medals for completing multiple stops.
✨ Collectible Charms for Each Stop
Each stop has its own unique charm featuring the city’s Route 66 identity. Participants collect one charm per stop they complete — building their full Route 66 charm set as they move through the series.
🎁 What You Get at Every Stop
- Glow‑in‑the‑dark Illinois medal (only at your first completed stop)
- City‑specific charm
- Swag bag
- Refreshments
- Raffles
Event shirt available for purchase- first 20 receive a free shirt
Virtual Option Explained
Can’t attend in person? Run your 6.6K anywhere — anytime between August 29 and October 31. Virtual participants receive the same medal, swag, and recognition. Your miles still count toward the 18‑stop challenge, and your run still supports ALS awareness.
Event Description
Updated RunSignup Description — Granite City 6.6K (McKinley Bridge Start)
Solidarity Sidekick Down Route – Granite City 6.6K Stop 18 • McKinley Bridge → Missouri Riverfront
This special Route 66 Centennial stop begins at the McKinley Bridge on the Illinois side, where participants will gather to meet Enric as he arrives from the Old Chain of Rocks Bridge after completing his morning 4‑mile segment.
At 10:00 AM, runners and walkers will join Enric for a 2.05‑mile shared run:
🏃 Course With Enric (2.05 miles)
0.7 miles crossing the McKinley Bridge pedestrian path into Missouri
1.4 miles continuing with Enric along the Missouri riverfront as he reconnects with the Route 66 alignment
This shared segment symbolizes the handoff from Illinois into Missouri as Enric continues his solo run toward Santa Monica Pier.
🌉 About the Course
Fully pedestrian‑safe
Scenic riverfront views
Iconic state‑line crossing
Flat and accessible for all paces
Sidekick‑friendly (leashed dogs welcome; chicken‑free treats provided)
🎽 What You Get
Solidarity Sidekick bib
Route 66 Centennial finisher medal and charm Event T-shirt
Spirits Run swag
Post‑run refreshments
A once‑in‑a‑lifetime moment crossing into Missouri with Enric
❤️ Why We Run
Every Spirits Run event supports local charities and rescue partners. Your miles help lift communities across Illinois and beyond.
Event Day Schedule:
TBD
Contact Form
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Event Location
McKinley Bridge- Illinois Entrance
McKinley Bridge Road & West 7th Street Venice, IL 62090
Venice, IL 62090 US
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