Ready, set, go! The 2nd Annual Naperville Women’s Half Marathon and 5K took off at North Central College this morning.
Benedetti-Wehrli Stadium was filled with over 2,500 participants.
“It’s a great community, we’re here to support, there’s a lot of comradery, and so we’re out here just to have a good time,” said Laticia Paom, a runner in the 5K.
Runners, joggers, and walkers alike braced the cold morning to take on the Downtown Naperville course.
“I think it went really well! Beautiful day, it was a little chilly to start out with but the sun is bright, the course is beautiful, it’s a fast course, it’s level. I thought it was a really fun race, it’s my first time. I didn’t do it last year so I’ll definitely do it again,” said Kim Anderson, a 5K runner.
“This is my second year doing it. Once again the race was beautifully organized, it seems to always go off without a hitch, and with even more runners this year it was just as organized and just a great experience,” said 5K runner, Christin Fairchild.
The half marathon and 5K was presented by Naperville Running Company. Proceeds went to Little Friends and 360 Youth Services.
“The runners are all really friendly and really happy,” said Kelly Rueffer, a volunteer for the races. “It’s just a fun atmosphere to be a part of. We were worried about getting up at 5 o’clock this morning but we’re bright-eyed and bushy-tailed and having fun.”
More information on finishing times and winners of the Naperville Women’s Half Marathon and 5K can be found on their website.
Naperville News 17’s Christine Lena reports.
