April 24, 2016
Women gathered this past Sunday to participate in the Inaugural Naperville Women’s Half Marathon and 5K. The event created a lot of buzz within the women’s running community a few months ago when registration started for just $1. Although only a few runners received the $1 blitz rate, they provided tiered increases on the first day. The marketing strategy got the word out for the half marathon and 5K event with over 2,000 registrants. The race events took place at North Central College in downtown Naperville with ample lots surrounding the start. Police kept the start and finish line area secure along with road closures throughout the city. The course consisted of a lot of residential areas which I original thought would mean a barren course with no support. However, the residents of Naperville proved me wrong. Supporters lined streets, followed their runners with a spectator friendly layout and locals sat in their driveways cheering on the beautiful morning. A crowd favorite was a couple on their lawn chairs chiming a large liberty bell within the first 2 miles. Runners finished the race in the football stadium with a victory lap before they completed the 13.1. A sparkly tiara finish medal and post race refreshments awaited runners. Many stayed and sat on the football field to recover and support other finishers celebrate in their accomplishment.
