This is the 5th annual Manhattan Irish Fest Parade 5K. Once again the Prairie State Road Runners are staging this event and are proud to partner with BERKOT'S SUPER FOODS as the race sponsor. This race is run under the direction of the Irish American Society of County Will.
THIS IS THE ONLY 5K RACE IN NORTH AMERICA THAT STARTS A PARADE, RUNS THROUGHOUT THE PARADE ROUTE, AND IS INCLUDED IN THE FESTIVAL ACTIVITIES. IT IS ALSO THE LARGEST 5K, WINTER RACE, IN ALL OF WILL COUNTY. So come join us in the fun!
This is a certified course, USATF #IL15029NM. This race has applied for and received the Chicago Area Runners Association designation as a CARA CERTIFIED RACE #CARA18003. This race has agreed to adhere to and uphold CARA's Best Practices Guideliones. These Guidelines embody the highest standards for quality, safety, and comfort for participants in a road race. This race will be chip timed.
This is a point to point race. PARKING IS LIMITED IN TOWN. Runners are asked to park at the Metra Station parking lot (15601 W. Sweedler) and a shuttle bus will take you to the start line (St. Paul's United Methodist Church of Christ, 140 Thelma St.) from 9-10:30 AM.
The Metra station is the designated area for race day packet pickup and race day registration.
We will have early packet pick-up Friday at Fitness Premier (540 W. North Street, Manhattan Il. Just across from B.P.) from 4 to 8pm, for those who wish to get theirbuttons early to attend the Irish Fest on Friday. Extra buttons will be available for $10. Gallagher's pub will also have a tent with entertainment. You can also order a corn beef sandwich and wash it down with a cold Guinness while listening to the music in their entertainment tent.
All registered runners will receive an official Manhattan Irish Fest Parade 5K dry fit long sleeve running shirt along with a custom Irish Fest Button, that has to be worn to gain entry into the Irish Fest Tent.This is where the post-race party will be held. (Your race bib does not gain entry)! If you wish to purchase an extra fest button they are available for $7.00 until race week then they will be increased to $10.
In the Irish Fest Tent you will be able to witness Irish Entertainment, enjoy a corn beef sandwich, and quench your thirst with a complimentary beer while waiting for the awards ceremony.
Remember, the last bus to the start line will leave the METRA station at 10:30. IF YOU MISS THAT LAST BUS THE METRA STATION IS ONLY A 1 MILE, WARM UP, RUN TO THE START LINE.
WE WILL NOT HAVE GEAR CHECK SO PLEASE LEAVE YOUR EXTRA GEAR IN YOUR CAR.
After the race a shuttle will be available to take you back to your car.
Last day to register for guaranteed shirt is February 15th
