5k... 3 ways!

ABOUT THE RACE

Over 20 years running!

5k | Food | FUN! Join us for a local summer tradition … over 20 years running! This USATF-certified course route was redesigned and repaved in 2017 and features a scenic wooded route through historic Pilcher Park.

Of course, the Sundowner wouldn’t be complete without the kids races – a 1 mile Junior Jog for kids ages 6-12 and a 50 yard Tot Trot for kids 6 and under. All youth participants will receive a custom t-shirt and medal.

Pre-registered runners will have their choice of unisex short-sleeve performance t-shirt or women's racerback tank top, and all runners will receive a finisher's medal. All runners will be treated to a post-race cookout in the pavilion.

The Sundowner 5k is a chip timed race. The overall male / female and masters (age 50+) male / female winners will be awarded prizes. In addition, age group awards will be given to the top 3 male/female finishers in each age bracket. Please see the FAQs for age group brackets.

$40 thru June 30 | $45 July 1-16 | $50 race day

The Sundowner 5k is the first race in the 2024 run3 series. Register for all three Joliet Park District races to receive free custom run3 swag. Click here to register for the run3 bundle (available through March 1-May 31).

How can I register for the Sundowner 5k?

You also can register online, in-person at the Joliet Park District, 3000 W Jefferson St in Joliet or call 815-741-7275 x100.

Can I run the Sundowner 5k virtually?

There will not be a separate virtual registration for the Sundowner 5k. Virtual runners must pick up their packets in person. Runners who choose to register for the race and run virtually on their own are still eligible for run3 swag.

Will race day registration be available?

Race day registration will be available if the race does not sell out. Race day registration is $50. Please note that apparel availability and size selection may be limited on race day.

Is there a group registration rate? How do I sign up my group?

Organized groups of 15 or more runners can receive a 20% discount on each runner’s registration. Interested groups may contact Denise Ryan for more information – dryan@jolietpark.org. *Inwood Run Club members are not eligible for group discounts.*

When and where is packet pickup?

Race packet pickup for pre-registered runners will be Wednesday, July 17 from 6a-7p in the Community Room at Inwood Athletic Club (3000 W. Jefferson in Joliet). Packet pickup also will be available on race day.

What age children are allowed to run the kids races? Can I run with my kids?

The 1 Mile Junior Jog is for children ages 6-12 years, and the 50 Yard Tot Trot is for children age 6 years and under. Parents are welcome and encouraged to run with their children in either race. For the safety of all participants, strollers and bikes are not permitted on the course.

Do you allow walkers for the 5k race?

Walkers are welcome to register for the Sundowner 5k, however, it is strongly encouraged that all participants walk / run at a 15 min/mile pace or better. This ensures that all racers are off the course by nightfall.

Is there an available course map?

The 5k course map is available here. Please note that much of the course is open to traffic (except on race day), so runners are encouraged to exercise extreme caution if they choose to practice the route before race day.

Where should I park on race day?

Limited parking is available near the race site at the Barber & Oberwortmann Horticultural Center (227 N. Gougar Road).

Offsite parking will be available near the Nature Center, and a FREE shuttle service will transport you to and from the race site. See below for shuttle hours.

CLICK HERE TO VIEW A MAP.

Gear check will be available. See below for more information.

What are the shuttle hours?

Pre-race shuttles will run continuously from 5:00-6:55p with limited runs from 6:30-6:45p to accommodate the kids races. Please allow ample time to park and shuttle to the race site.

Post-race shuttles will begin after the last runner crosses the finish line and run until 9:00p.

Will there be a gear check area?

Yes, gear check will be available. Runners should pick up their items ASAP after the race. Any items left behind will be returned to Inwood Athletic Club and available for pickup the following day starting at NOON.

Can I run with my dog? What about a stroller?

For the safety of all participants, your children and your pets, we do not permit pets or strollers (or bikes or rollerblades) on the race course.

What are the age group brackets for awards?

The top 3 male and female finishers in each age group will receive an award. Age group brackets for the Sundowner 5k are:

0-9 | 10-14 | 15-19 | 20-24 | 25-29 | 30-34 | 35-39 | 40-44 | 45-49 | 50-54 | 55-59 | 60-64 | 65-69 | 70-74 | 75-79 | 80+

What kind of food do you serve at the post-race party?

While the menu may vary from year to year, past post-race party menus have included hamburgers, hot dogs, veggie burgers, chicken sandwiches, chips and cookies.

Can my family or friends buy a meal at the post-race party?

Yes! Additional meal tickets are available for purchase for $7/person.

How does my company become a Sundowner 5k sponsor?

Contact Beth Ley, Corporate Relations Supervisor, for more information on sponsorship or participation in any of the Joliet Park District run3 race events: 815-741-7274 x 319 –OR– bley@jolietpark.org

Still have questions? Need more information?

Contact Denise at dryan@jolietpark.org

No refunds due to inclement weather and/or race cancellation.

Sundowner 5k

Thursday, July 18 | 7:00p

Pilcher Park

Sundowner Tot Trot and Junior Jog | 6:30p

Packet Pickup

About the Race