Oak Park Runners Club is one of the oldest and most active running groups in the Chicago area; we’ve been going strong since 1982. We currently have 273 members, which is a record high. Our group runs and accompanying socials are more popular than ever. Our Monday night, Wednesday night, and Saturday morning runs each attract 20 – 40 runners, with a variety of paces. We run all year long.
Our club is a registered 501(c)(3) and an all volunteer organization. We proudly own and produce the Good Life Race, which includes a 5K, Youth Mile, and Junior Dash. We also volunteer at several other races including the Chicago Marathon, where we have been managing a water station for over 25 years.
Oak Park is in our name and it’s where we are based; however, about 30% of our members live in neighboring towns including Forest Park and Berwyn.
We are a member of the Road Runners Club of America (RRCA), which means that we carry general liability insurance and follow best practices regarding safety, quality, and inclusivity. Additionally, our Good Life Race Director is a certified RRCA Race Director.
For more information about our club, follow us on Facebook and Instagram @oakparkrunners And read our IRS filings on Candid (formerly GuideStar). You can also follow our race on Facebook and Instagram @goodliferace
The family membership is for 2+ runners in the same household. Children only need to be members if they will run with us, or compete on our CARA Circuit team. Memberships are not refundable or transferable.
Name | Title |
---|---|
Nick Bensen | President |
Geri Bensen | Vice President |
Dave Schaub | Treasurer |
Sarang Supekar | Technology Director |
Paul Oppenheim | Coach |
Peter Bender | Circuit Races Director |
Nick Blashill | Editor & Social Media Director |
Sherry Laniosz | Marketing & Communications Director |
Anna Olsen | Board Member |
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Oak Park Runners Club’s mission is to encourage participation in the sport of running in the Oak Park, IL and surrounding communities, guided by the club's four pillars that serve as our core values – openness, preparedness, resilience, and camaraderie.