Just Book It 5K Benefits Runners, Library Foundation

Lupe Gallardo said that once she started the Grayslake Running Club, one of her dreams was to organize a race that would bring the community together. This August, her wish will come true.

The Grayslake Running Club is partnering with the Grayslake Library Foundation to hold the first Just Book It 5K Run and Walk Aug. 6.

“I’d close my eyes and I could see and hear people finishing the 5K, runners, walkers, families, kids and music. I can not believe it is actually happening,” she said. “What makes the dream even sweeter is that we are giving back to the wonderful community of Grayslake.”

Gallardo created the Grayslake Running Club in 2005 as an inclusive running environment for runners of all levels. Gallardo said the club has grown to over 160 members and offers group runs, clinics and an opportunity to network with other runners. While the club participates in an annual 5K each July organized by the Grayslake Chamber of Commerce, the Aug. 6 race is the club’s first organized event.

“I think the time is right,” she said. “I think we can handle this.”

Wanting to benefit the community that has supported the club, Gallardo said she was contacted by the Grayslake Library Foundation to partner with the club.

“It’s two organizations that do service for the community,” said Marty Reynolds, a member of the library foundation who with Gallardo will direct the race. “It seemed to be the perfect match to come together and do a 5K race.”

Reynolds said funds raised will help enhance the circulation desk. Speaking with library director Roberta Thomas, he added the library hopes to develop multimedia bags to include an audio or video tape and book that are fitness focused.

The 5K run will begin at 8 a.m. Walkers will start at 8:05 a.m. The children’s quarter-mile dash will begin at 7:45 a.m. All races will begin and end at the , 100 Library Lane.

Gallardo said what will make the race unique is there also will be younger age categories to receive awards. Boys and girls in categories under age 10, ages 11 to 12 and ages 13 to 14 will be eligible to receive awards based on how they finish the race.

“There are kids who like to run and can run a 5K,” she said. “Now they can secure an award for their efforts. It’s a wonderful opportunity for kids.”

Race organizers have planned community entertainers throughout the event. Members of the Grayslake North High School marching band will perform, and Jimmy Novak from 102.3 WXLC FM also will be there.

Gallardo added the club also is honored to have Tom O’Hara come to sign autographs. O’Hara, who was born on the near north side of Chicago, is one of 14 Illinois residents to have broken four minutes in the mile.

There also will be a story time and games for children as well as food and vendor booths to visit.

The online registration fee is $25 to join the 5K and $10 to join the kids dash. The pre-registration deadline is Aug. 3. Participants also may register at the race. The cost is $30 to join the 5K and $15 to join the kids dash. The first 300 participants to register will receive a T-shirt. Reynolds added all children ages 14 and under will receive a free book and goody bag.

Racers can register online at www.active.com. For information about registering, volunteering and sponsor opportunities, email to justbookit5K@earthlink.net.