Catch the Elf 5k & 10k

Catch the Elf 5k & 10k

Join us for the Inaugural Catch the Elf race on December 20th. This Christmas themed race benefits the Toy Box Connection Children's Charity.

Date and Location

• Date: December 20, 2025
• Location: 4000 W 155th St, Markham, IL

Race Details

• Race Format: Each race (the 5k and the 10k) will have its own race elf. The elf will get a one minute thirty second head start. If you finish before the elf, you will win a special prize!
• Awards: Each chip timed race will have awards for the Top 3 overall as well as the top 3 males and females in various age groups.
• Santa's Presence: Santa will be on site to hear Children's Christmas Wishes.
• Secret Santa: Drop off a $15 or less running related gift to choose a secret Santa gift after your race.

Secret Santa Participation

• Eligibility: Anyone interested in participating can bring a small (value of $10-$15) running related gift.
• Gift Drop-off: Turn it in, wrapped, at packet pickup to get a special sticker on your bib.
• Collection: You will be able to pick from the secret Santa pile after the race. First come, first serve.
• Exchange Policy: No exchanging of gifts after you have chosen one.

Race Start Time

• 10k Start: 9:00 AM
• 5k Start: 9:10 AM
• Course Repeats: The 10k will repeat the 5k course twice.
• Course Map: View Course Map

Packet Pickup

• Date: Friday, December 19th and race morning starting at 7:30 AM.
• Friday Location: Running for Kicks, 7158 W. 127th Street, Palos Heights from Noon to 6 PM.
• Gear Check: We will have a gear check. We request that you keep all valuables in a safe location.
• Awards Pickup: There will not be an awards ceremony. If you finish in the top 3 in your age group, please pick up your award before leaving the race site.

Results and Shirts

• Live Results: Live results will be available online at www.ilpreptoptiming.com.
• Shirts: A long sleeve shirt is included with your registration fee.

For the Kids

• Santa's Visit: Santa will make a special visit to hear kids Christmas wishes.
• Kids Race: There will be a kids race for those 8 and younger.

About Toy Box Connection

• How It Works: www.toyboxconnection.com
• Mission: Our mission is to connect children in need with toys and books.
• Operation: We accept new and used toy/book donations and redistribute them to children through other non-profits.
• Community Engagement: We conduct fundraising events to support our mission and improve literacy scores in schools.

Future Programs

• Athletes Work Program: We hope to initiate an Athletes Work Program for high school students.
• Race Day Donations: Contributions on Race Day are welcome.
• Gift Suggestions: Gift cards from Amazon or Target are appreciated for purchasing gifts according to demand.
• Ideal Gift: Legos are a great gift, as they are neither age nor gender restricted.