BY SARAH AMUNDSEN
As a runner, I love the hard work, sweat and sore feeling you have after completing a race. But sometimes it is nice to have a reward after the race- The reward being chocolate that is. The Hot Chocolate 5K and 15K is a race that combines two of my favorite things, running and chocolate. At the end of the race, runners will receive a finisher’s mug, complete with hot chocolate, chocolate fondue and fruit, pretzels and rice krispie treats for fondue dipping. Runners also will get a hoodie. This race welcomes all experience levels. Whether this is your tenth race or your first, this is the perfect race. To me, chocolate is a good motivation for anyone to run.
The race starts at Grant Park. The 5K route covers North Lakeshore Drive, East Wacker Drive, around Jackson Boulevard, down South Michigan Avenue, then down Roosevelt Road. The race ends where it started, at Grant Park. The 15K extends this route, continuing down South Lake Shore Drive and Moe Drive. The route back is on Fort Dearborn Drive, Burnham Harbor Drive and Museum Campus Drive, then finally ends at Grant Park like the 5K. And even though the race registration is full, there is still room for spectators and volunteers. The race begins at 7 AM, and volunteer shifts begin 1-2 hours before the race.
The Hot Chocolate 5K and 15K also benefits several Chicago charities. The event’s main charity partner is Ronald McDonald House Charities of Chicagoland and Northwest Indiana. This organization supports the well-being and education of children. Other charity partners include Imerman Angels, American Cancer Society, Black Diamond Charities, Little Kids Rock, Reading is Fundamental, Team in Training and Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation of America.
Hot Chocolate 5K and 15k, Grant Park. For more information visit www.hotchocolate15k.com or follow on Facebook and Twitter.
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