I know that running a race is a potentially hazardous activity. I should not enter and run unless I
am medically able to do so and properly trained. Further I understand that known risks
associated with running in this event include, but are not limited to, falls, contact with other
participants, the effects of weather, traffic, and course conditions, and other risks typically found
in running a road race. I further understand there are also unknown risks associated with such
event and acknowledge that the Released Parties (as hereinafter defined) are not responsible
for and do not guarantee anyone’s safety for any known and unknown risks. Further I certify as
a material condition to my being permitted to enter this race that I am physically fit and
sufficiently trained for the completion of this event and have no known medical condition that
would preclude me from participating in the event.
In consideration of accepting this entry, I, the participant, intending to be legally bound do
hereby waive and forever release any and all rights and claims for damages or injuries that I
may have against The Morton Arboretum (the “Event Director”), RunSignup.com, and all of their
respective agents assisting with the event, sponsors, trustees, employees, representatives, and
volunteers (collectively, the “Released Parties”) for any and all injuries to me or my personal
property related to this running event, whether caused by the negligence of the Released
Parties or otherwise. This release includes all injuries and/or damages suffered by me before,
during or after the event. I recognize, intend and understand that this release is binding on my
heirs, guardians, legal representatives, successors, distributors, executors, administrators, or
assignees.
Further, I hereby agree to hold harmless the Released Parties of and from any and all liability of
any nature whatsoever and from all death, injuries or sickness to participant or damages which
may be suffered by me during my participation in this running event and from any act or failure
to act of the Released Parties. This includes but is not limited to all claims for compensation,
bodily injury, death, property damage, costs, expenses, and attorney’s fees, whether or not
arising out of the negligence of the Released Parties.
In the event of an illness, injury or medical emergency arising during the event I hereby
authorize and give my consent to the Event Director to secure from any accredited hospital,
clinic and/ or physician any treatment deemed necessary for my immediate care. I agree that I
will be fully responsible for payment of any and all medical services and treatment rendered to
me including but not limited to medical transport, medications, treatment and hospitalization.
I agree to abide by all decisions of any race official relative to my ability to safely complete the
run. Further, I agree to abide by any safety guidelines issued by the state, the community or by
this race for my participation in this race.
Further, I grant permission to all the foregoing to use my name, voice and images of myself in
any photographs, motion pictures, results, publications or any other print, videographic or
electronic recording of this event for legitimate purposes.
This event follows the standard running industry policy: All entry fees are non-refundable. We
reserve the right to postpone or cancel the event due to circumstances beyond our control such
as a natural disaster or emergency or as required to protect the safety of participants and staff.
No refunds will be issued under these circumstances. We reserve the right to change the details
of the event without prior notice. I understand that my entry fee is nonrefundable and bib
numbers are non transferable.
By submitting this entry, I acknowledge (or a parent or adult guardian for all children under 18
years) having read and agreed to the above release and waiver including the no refund policy.
FUNDRAISING RUNNERS SECTION
Fundraising Requirements. I am required to meet the minimum fundraising requirement of $250
for The Morton Arboretum. 100% of the fundraising minimum must be reached by April 15,
2026. My failure to meet this minimum by such date will result in my credit card being charged
for any respective difference owed on April 16, 2026. The Morton Arboretum has the authority to
cancel my 2026 Champion of Trees 10K registration if I fail to fulfill my fundraising commitment.
Injuries and Illnesses. The Morton Arboretum incurs expenses whether or not I run and my
entry cannot be deferred, donated, refunded or transferred if I do not run. In the event I am
unable to run due to injury, I agree to raise a minimum of 50% ($125) of the fundraising
requirement for The Morton Arboretum to offset the costs of my registration and otherwise
support The Morton Arboretum. This amount is due no later than April 15, 2026.