Be a part of the 10th annual Southwest Half Marathon and enjoy one of the Midwest’s finest running events. From pre-race stretching led by experts from Palos Health and Fitness to a post-race celebration complete with live entertainment, the Southwest Half Marathon is “a true runner’s race” offering an extremely fast, flat course with chip timing, pace teams, cash prizes and commemorative medals for all finishers.
Since 2008, the Southwest Half Marathon has raised more than $175,000 for area charities including the South West Special Recreation Association, American Cancer Society for Prostate Cancer and Research, Crohn’s and Colitis Foundation of America and Lake Katherine Nature Center and Botanic Garden in Palos Heights. This year’s race will benefit the South West Special Recreation Association and the Palos Park Police Cadet Program. A 2010 Governor’s Hometown Award and several years of recognition by the Chicago Area Runner’s Association (CARA) are additional reasons to expect a full field.
The Southwest Half Marathon is considered a runners preferred race and that designation has much to do with the beauty and conditions of the course. The route weaves through gorgeous Cook County Forest Preserves, along flat, newly resurfaced pavement in Palos Heights, Palos Park and Palos Hills.
Race founder and Director Mel Diab does everything possible to make the Southwest Half Marathon & 10K a “runner’s race” – complete with mile markers to let runners know how they are progressing.
Volunteers will be on hand at 8 water stations to keep runners properly hydrated along the course.
A minimum of 40 portable restrooms are available, with several stationed at points along the course.
Two medical tents are provided along the route, with medical care provided by Loyola University Medical School.
Whether you tackle the half marathon or the 10k, a celebration is in order! Runners will enjoy a bash after the race in their honor and in honor of our non-profit beneficiaries, complete with live music, beer and other beverages.