Runners to Flee Zombies at 'Dead Last 5K'

How fast do you run? Now ask yourself—would you run faster if you were being chased by zombies?

You'll get to find out should you decide to participate in The Oasis Grayslake Youth Center's first "Dead Last 5K Zombie Run," slated to be held at 3 p.m. Oct. 12. The event will be held at the College of Lake County.

"The board of directors for the Oasis are always throwing new, fun ideas for fundraisers out there. This sounded cool, and with the recent enthusiasm for all things zombie (thanks to "The Walking Dead!"), we thought we would give it a shot," said Greg Henkin, music director at The Oasis. "We were very fortunate that CLC liked the idea and wanted to partner with us."

About 100 people—and 100 zombies—have registered to participate in the event so far, said Henkin. 

During the event, runners—or "survivors," as they're being called—will start the course wearing sport flag belts with two "life flags" per runner. Zombies, who will be placed at specific locations along the race route, will attempt to remove the runners' "life flags." Extra "life flags" can be picked up along the course, if runners are able to dodge the undead to grab them. 

People can also choose to walk the race route. Walkers will start the course 10 minutes after the runners begin the race.

Registration is $25 for survivors and $20 for zombies through Oct. 9. Late registration, after Oct. 9 through the day of the race, is $30 for survivors and $25 for zombies. Participants must be at least 16 years old. Click here for registration information.

Proceeds from the event will be donated to The Oasis, said Henkin.