Chicago’s Chill Thrill: Runners Gear Up for the New Year’s Eve Fun Run at Lake Michigan

CHICAGO – Thousands of individuals took off running for New Year’s Eve.

They joined the Chicago Sport & Social Club’s New Year’s Eve 5k event, where the motto is “Earn your right to celebrate tonight.”

They indeed earned it by completing a 5K in dreadful weather.

A thousand participants registered, and nearly all of them appeared for the challenge. The 5K kicked off on the lakefront at Fullerton, progressing north against a fierce wind, annoying rain, and crashing waves on the shore. 

Organizers recommended that runners keep their heads down, avoid being swept into Lake Michigan, and press forward. 

Chris Hastings, President of the Chicago Sport & Social Club remarked, “Set a personal best and go as swiftly as you can.”

Rob Caughey shared that when he prepared to begin, waves taller than him drenched the runners. 

“On the way out, it was incredibly windy against us. On the return, we had the wind behind us; we were speeding along, doing great,” he stated.

Grace and Jane Lynch, both high school athletes from Evanston, signed up to run in order to stay fit during the off-season. 

“I don’t know, it’s winter in Chicago; what do you anticipate? I thought it was still quite enjoyable,” Grace commented.

Glenn and Jen from Atlanta had a Chicago agenda: run the 5k in the morning, attend the NHL Winter Classic at Wrigley Field, and view fireworks from a hotel overlooking the Chicago River.

They believe it’s fortunate to engage in something healthy on New Year’s Eve.

Runners who honored their commitment to participate in the race earned their right to celebrate tonight in more pleasant conditions.