Ben's Memorial Mile

Event Details

Date: 2026-08-08

Location: 1036 Grove St., Downers Grove, IL

Race Link: Ben's Memorial Mile

Introduction

Before the all-state accolades, before the injuries, before middle school, high school, college, and all the difficulties that followed, Benjamin Lee Silver was a brother—to Aaron, three years older—and a son, to loving parents Paul and Jamie. Born in San Francisco, California on November 23, 1992, Ben was the kind of kid whose smile, nearly constant, was contagious. Energetic and creative, Ben jumped into any new endeavor with cheerful abandon, unafraid of embarrassing himself. If something was exciting, if there was the potential to improve himself, why not try it?

Running Career

Early Years: After moving to Downers Grove, Illinois in 1998, Ben dabbled in youth soccer before following in brother Aaron’s footsteps and joining the cross country and track teams at Herrick Middle School.

High School Accolades: Ben was a star from the outset, a class above his junior high competition. Despite being limited by injuries and minimal formal training, Ben shattered the school 1600 meter record with a 4:40.6.

Injury Challenges: Unfortunately, his season was derailed by injury only days later. His performances were incredible, with some insight, nearly unbelievable.

Final High School Performance: A cocktail of injuries and poor conditions marked his track season, but his determination led him to an impressive 9:18.91 in the 3200 meters at state.

College Years and Challenges

Scholarship Accepted: Eager to continue his running career while pursuing a top-notch education, Ben accepted a scholarship to compete and study at Miami University of Ohio.

Academic Struggles: Beleaguered by injuries, he turned his focus toward academics while navigating the intense pressure of college life.

Mental Health Journey: Shortly after grappling with academic stress, Ben began to face serious mental health challenges, leading to a diagnosis of schizophrenia.

Family Support: During this dark period, his entire family fought for him, navigating the complex mental health system in hopes of finding help.

Community and Legacy

Celebration of Life: At a Celebration of Ben Silver’s life, over three-hundred family members, friends, teammates, and well-wishers gathered to share memories and keep his spirit alive.

Mission: Ben’s Memorial Mile is a nonprofit organization that raises money and awareness for mental health research and suicide prevention.

Community Events: We aim to bring people together, break stigmas, and empower everyone in the battle against mental illness.

Race Purpose: Together we’re working to celebrate in a way which he would approve—sweating it out on the track in the name of effort, community, and love.

Registration Information

Registration: TBD. There will be same-day registration, but participants are encouraged to sign up online prior to the event.

Event Logistics

Packet Pickup: Race bibs can be picked up in Fishel Park at packet pickup. All participants must pick up a race bib prior to the races.

Results: Results will be posted online the day of the event at IL Prep Top Timing.

Awards and Recognition

Awards: TBD. There will be awards for age groups: 19 & under, 20-29, 30-39, 40-49, 50-59, 60-69, and 70+ years old.

Parking Information

Parking: You are not allowed to park on the course, and please do not park on Grove Street at Fishel Park. Lots of free parking is available in downtown Downers Grove.

Race Day Schedule

Race Times: 4:15 PM: Open/walking mile: 4:45 PM: Elite mile: 5:30 PM: Awards ceremony.

Community Festival: The Fishel Park community festival will start at 3:00 PM, featuring live music, free concessions, and activities.

Safety and Regulations

Weather: The event will be canceled in case of inclement weather. Emergency information will be sent via email.

Prohibited Items: Pets (aside from service animals), bicycles, inline skates, and other wheeled vehicles are prohibited on the course.