FAQ
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 chip-timed event. 2023 marks the 10th anniversary of this unique race!
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 transforming lives, locally, nationally and globally!
Registration and Entry Fee
- Early Bird Registration is $35.00 through August 29
- Registration is $40.00 beginning August 30 through September 26
- Registration is $45.00 from September 27 through September 30 at 7P.
Entry fees are non-refundable.
What should I wear?
Participants are encouraged to dress comfortably, and OF COURSE bring some light (suggestions: glow necklaces, reflectors, head lamps, 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 overall male and female.
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 Director Carolyn Wilkin at cwilkin@wheatonparks.org if you need to make arrangements with a service animal. Cases need to be reviewed at least 72 hours before the race.
Can I run with a stroller?
Strollers are not encouraged but are allowed. For participant safety, strollers are asked to line up in the last wave at the Start Line.
What is the race route?
Check out this year's route here.
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 October Fest activities, 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?
- Thursday, September 28 at the Central Athletic Complex Gym (500 S Naperville Rd.) between 10A - 7P
- Saturday, September 30 at the Central Athletic Complex Gym (500 S Naperville Rd.) from 5:30 - 6:45P
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 rights 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
VIRTUAL RACE FAQ
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 Carolyn Wilkin at cwilkin@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 10/8/23.
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 cwilkin@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 Director Carolyn Wilkin at cwilkin@wheatonparks.org.
