At the 9:28 A.M. official start time of our race on Saturday, March 31st, Andy Remley said “It’s sunny and warm everywhere but over this park! No Foolin’!” And thus began the DNA No Foolin’ 5k at Brent Hassert Park in Lockport. My friends and I were feeling a bit crazy as we took off around the paved trail of the CARA-certified race.
It was 39 degrees, drizzling, with 25 mph winds at our faces. I seriously considered sitting it out in the car. I’m glad I didn’t. This was all about the fun! I gave up any time goals and embraced the crazy. There were volunteers on course ready with whipped cream and a pie in the face; I think I saw runners being pelted with marshmallows; A large plush dog served as course marshall. Serious runners could bypass the shenanigans, but I saw a lot of smiles on this weather-challenged course.
Instead of the ubiquitous race shirt, runners received fun socks and glasses making for some good photo ops. Post-race included donuts and cupcakes. Overall winners received even crazier glasses and medals. 10-year age group medals have an awesome race logo on the front and “Award Winning Fool” on the back.
Despite the fun there were some serious runners at the front of the pack. Emmanuel Angomas of Romeoville was overall male and Rachel Reyes of Joliet was overall female. Masters overall winners were Darryl Tyndorf Jr. and Eileen Skisak. The post-race party broke up quickly after the awards ceremony just as the sun started to break through the clouds.
This was No Foolin’s second year. I’m looking forward to next year and hopefully better weather!
