Although the number of runners was down at this year’s Ham Run Half Marathon and 5K run, entry fees still generated quite a bit of money that will go back into the community.
“The Ham Run Half Marathon and 5K were YMCA fundraisers for the Community Support Campaign, and we raised over $5,000 for scholarships so no one will ever be turned away from the Y because of an inability to pay,” said Colette Mueller, associate executive director of the Cook County Community YMCA.
Because the YMCA took over leadership of the Ham Run event late this year, only a few initial changes were made. For instance, the starting date went from the first Sunday in May to the first Saturday in May and the start time moved from 8 a.m. to 10 a.m. but more changes will come, Mueller promises.
“Next year we will add a 5K stroller division and childwatch/ youth activities area at the finish line so both parents can run the race,” said Mueller.
With the advantage of having a whole year to plan, more refinements will likely be made, said Mueller, adding that she would like to hear suggestions from the public that could help grow the race(s) and make the Ham Run a bigger and better event for all concerned.
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