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Community Corner

Hundreds Stampede Grayslake for Chamber's 5K Race and Fun Run

Lake County runners come together to raise money for college-bound high school seniors.

More than 600 runners took to the streets of Grayslake Saturday for the 21st annual Chamber of Commerce 5K Race and Fun Run, making it the biggest turnout in its history.

The weather was ideal as the race began early morning under a cloudy, cool sky, and ended with the sun shining on the finished participants and volunteers.

“I know the course and it’s not too competitive,” said Joe Longo, a 15 year old cross country runner at Carmel High School who ran in last year’s race. His uncle joined him in the run, making it a family event.

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Runners and walkers from across Lake County including Lindsay Graham and her mother, who traveled an hour from Lombard in the midst of heavy storms. Their drive proved worth it as Lindsay, 13, was awarded first place in her age group while her mother broke her own personal record.

Two new awards were introduced this year including the Fastest Family award which was earned by the Lesinski/Roscoe family including Dr. Jim Roscoe, Dan Roscoe, Neil Lesinski and Sarah Lesinski; and the Fastest Couple award which was earned by Nathan Cummins and Kim Kiefer, both of Grayslake.

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While some raced alone or with family, others made this year’s 5K a fun outing with friends. Karla Rung of Lake Villa,  Alana Devaughn of Antioch, and Tracy Seremak of Grayslake enjoyed time together before the race by chatting on the sidelines and preparing for their run.

Karen Christian Smith, Executive Director for the Chamber said the event in its entirety ran very smoothly.

“It’s a perfect day for a run,” added Marlon Rodas, Public Relations and Marketing Director for the Grayslake Chamber of Commerce.

Funds from the 5K Race and Fun Run will be donated to the Grayslake Chamber of Commerce Scholarship fund which provides scholarships to high school seniors who will be attending a 2 or 4 year college or university.

The fund that was started by the Lawrence family in order to honor Joanne Lawrence former Executive Director of the Chamber, who also attended the race.

Check here to find the results from this year’s Grayslake Chamber 5K.

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