What will you do for tacos? I’ll run hills! Friday was the third running of the Fierce Fiesta 5k in Channahon. This fun race takes place in the evening completely on the beautiful paths of Heritage Bluffs Golf Course.
Race week started with informative emails from race director Jackie O’Hara. Early bib pickup is offered, but there really is no need as the race is limited to 250 runners and the packet table was not crowded before the race.
This is a family-friendly race put on by the Channahon Park District and folks arrive early to mingle with their neighbors. Rain was in the forecast and a final email reminded everyone that this race is “well worth the rain, sweat, and hills!” I agree!
Runners lined up on the path and we started promptly at 6 p.m. After a sharp left turn, we hit our first downhill and I heard gasps as some folks realized Jackie wasn’t kidding about .
It is a beautiful course; spring has arrived and I don’t think I could count the various shades of green if I tried. We did pass signs warning us of poison ivy, though! The scenery, gently rolling hills, and post-race party make this my favorite local 5k.
Spectators and the speedsters all were at the finish to cheer on the rest of us. Volunteers handed out water and medals, and then it was on to the party!
Taco Tuesday is a regularly scheduled run for the Channahon Minooka Running Club, so you can imagine the tacos and margaritas afterwards were heartedly embraced.
Awards were given to first male and female, first male and female Channahon residents, and three deep in age groups.
Male Winners
- Alex Forster 19:50
- Roland Hopkins 20:19
- Gavin Carlson 20:50
Female Winners
- Gabriella McCollom 21:04
- Stephanie McCollom 22:16
- Christina Eagan 22:36
Alex and Gabriella also won the awards for first Channahon finishers.
As we lined up to start the race I noticed a taco with margarita in hand lining up in the back. This was Nikki Underhile. She won the costume contest.
After awards the party continued with a DJ until 9 p.m. This race is a blast and sells out every year. Register early! It is part of a three-race series that includes the Frosty Five and a new four-miler point-to-point in August called the Dash-n-Splash. A discount is offered when registering for the complete series. I cannot wait to find out what fun awaits in the new race.
