✨Sparkle to the Bridge 5K✨

Race Overview

Grab a friend, lace up your sneakers and join Nora's Sparkle of Love Project for our first annual ✨Sparkle to the Bridge 5K✨ in Patoka, IL!

• Date: November 2, 2025
• Location: Cox Bridge Access, Patoka, IL
• Start Time: 8:00 a.m.
• Distance: 5K

Event Details

The events kick off on Sunday, November 2 with a hayride from Cox's River Bridge to the start line at the boat dock. From there, the 5K will start promptly at 8:00 a.m., winding through the heart of rural Patoka's Pope Township — past picturesque landscapes, rolling pastures, friendly farm animals and vibrant fall foliage, with views of Carlyle Lake and the historic Kaskaskia River.

• Finish Line: River Bridge
• Post-Race Activities: Music, donuts, refreshments, awards ceremony
• Special Guests: Photo ops with Heart Lover the unicorn
• Post-Run Worship: 10:00 a.m. service at Patoka Christian Church

Beneficiary Information

Proceeds from this event benefit Nora's Sparkle of Love Project, a nonprofit that funds pediatric brain tumor research and supports kids like Nora who are battling childhood cancer. Every step you take will aid these children and their families as they travel a much harder road.

• Mission: Support families dealing with childhood cancer
• Cause: Proceeds help fund crucial research
• Impact: Aid families on a challenging journey
• Spirit: Run for a reason and sparkle for Nora

Logistics

• Check-in Location: Cox River Bridge Access, northwest of Patoka, IL (see map)
• Check In: No later than 7:45 a.m.
• Transportation: Hayride to start line, park at the River Bridge, arrive 7:00 - 7:45 a.m.
• Packet Pickup: Ahead of time at Patoka Christian Church

Packet Pickup Times:

• Friday: 10/31, 6 - 8 p.m.
• Saturday: 11/1, 8 - 9 a.m.
• Sunday: At the race

Awards & Recognition

• Medals: Awarded to all participants
• Categories: Awards for top finishers in various age groups
• T-shirts: Available for participants registering by October 19
• Order: T-shirts available for purchase for non-participants