The run is held on the course that the NCHS cross country team uses throughout their season and the one Nick ran each fall when he was part of the team. The length of the scenic course is 2.85 miles beginning with a quick half mile start on asphalt. This is followed by trails over hills, through woods, and on grass around the lake at Sam Parr State Park,. The non-competitive walk is a 2 mile section of the runner's course. Due to the nature of the terrain, baby joggers/strollers and animals are prohibited on all portions of the race course. In order to ensure that participants are able to hear all instructions/announcements from race directors and volunteers, the use of headphones is discouraged.

The run is timed by Kinetic Timing using Champion Chip timing. An overall award will be given to the fastest male and female runners. Awards will also be given to the top 3 men and women in the following age divisions: 14 & under, 15-19, 20-29, 30-39, 40-49, 50-59, 60 & up.

7:15 AM Registration & Packet Pickup begins
8:30 AM Run begins
8:40 AM Walk begins
9:00 AM NCHS Drum Line Performance
9:20 AM Race Results & Awards Ceremony
9:45 AM Transplant Donor/Recipient Stories & Donor/Recipient Family Recognition
10:15 AM Raffle Results
10:30 AM Closing Comments

Sam Parr State Park is located at 13225 E State Highway 33 outside of Newton, IL. Once you have reached the park entrance, watch for race signs directing you to the event parking.

For event-related questions, please click on the Contact the Organizers button on the left-hand side of this page.