Highland Park is a northwest Suburb of Chicago about 30 miles from the city, making the Cupid’s Love Dash 5k an easy drive, and the event had plenty of parking. The weather has been challenging in the Chicagoland area, and Sunday was another chilly morning, temperature in the low 20’s with gusty winds.
Despite the weather, 199 participants braved the conditions for a fun 5k to celebrate Valentines Day. The course went through the downtown part of Highland Park, which was very scenic as we ran by beautiful homes with some fun hills in the mix. The residents came out to support the runners and walkers, and it was great to see many families participating in the race wearing love-themed costumes.
On the course, they had one water stop and one Cupid candy aid station with chocolate and lollipops! That’s not something you see at other races, but sweets on the run made it all more fun. Plus the hot chocolate at the finish line was the perfect treat to warm up afterwards.
Also at the finish line, runners could indulge in bagels, fruit yogurt, and more candy. The race had some great swag, too; all participants received a medal, free finisher photos, and the top winners got running hats.
Female winner: Lydia Nader, 20:06
Male winner: Mark Vear, 17:56
