JJK5K
When is JJK5K?
JJK5K takes place on Monday, September 7, 2026 in Madison, IL.
What distances does JJK5K offer?
JJK5K offers 2 events: 1.25 Mile Walk, 5K Run.
| Event | Distance | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1.25 Mile Walk | 1.25 mi | $15.00 | Register |
| 5K Run | 3.1 mi | $45.00 | Register |
How much does JJK5K cost?
Registration for JJK5K starts at $15.00. Prices vary by event distance.
Where is JJK5K held?
JJK5K is held in Madison, IL at World Wide Technology Raceway.
About JJK5K
JJK 5K Run & Walk during the NASCAR Cup Series Weekend at World Wide Technology Raceway
Add to your Labor Day festivities and don't miss the fun and excitement of the 4th annual JJK5K Race on September 7th at World Wide Technology Raceway. This will be the first event of the 2026 Enjoy Illinois 300. This is the fourth annual event honoring our hometown champion Jackie Joyner-Kersee. She has dedicated her life after Olympic competition to supporting the youth of East St. Louis. Please join us for this incredible opportunity to celebrate her accomplishments, welcome to the first event of the 2026 Enjoy Illinois 300 weekend.
There are two events to choose from -- the 5K run or 1.25 mile walk around the oval track.
It will be a unique experience for a great cause! All activities take place throughout the WWTR facilities including the same track NASCAR drivers race for the Enjoy Illinois 300 race. Race proceeds benefit the JJK Foundation – a vital part of the Metro East community supporting many youth programs.
Registration Includes:
- T shirt
- Commemorative event medal
- Free and convenient parking
- Two tickets to the Enjoy Illinois 300 NASCAR Cup Race on September 13
- Free downloadable photos for all participants
- Awards for top three finishers in various classes in the 5K
DETAILS
Again, ALL ARE WELCOME: Individual runners, teams, families, friends are invited to register for the JJK5K. Big River Running Co. will again manage the race details – so if you’re going for a personal best or just looking to celebrate the Labor Day weekend the start of the NASCAR weekend.
Register by August 15th for preferred pricing.
FAQ's
Born and raised in East St. Louis, Jackie is committed to ensuring that all children have access to high quality after-school programs, safe recreational places within their communities, and caring adults to help them achieve their dreams. Jackie is the heart and soul of this organization and serves as living proof that kids in East St. Louis can dare to dream big and if they have the drive and determination, they can accomplish anything they desire.
When does the race start?
The race will start at 9:00 AM on Monday September 7 on the WWTR racetrack at the track finish line.
Do I really get to go on the racetrack?
Yes! Both the JJK5K and walk are on the track See map at registration link.
What about parking?
It is free at the track. Details will be provided as we get closer to the event.
What swag do I get and when?
All participants receive a custom commemorative T-shirt, participant medallion honoring Jackie and medals for the top three finishers in five year age groups.
JJK Foundation
Packet Pickup Information
- Monday, September 7 on site (7:00am-8:30am)
Note: NASCAR tickets will be included in your registration packet
POST-RACE PARTY
September 7 Schedule
- Arrive by 7:30am
- JJK5K and 1.25 walk start at 9:00am
- Free Parking
WHY:
So many once-in-a-lifetime memories in the making!
JJK will present the award medals and be available for photos with participants. All proceeds from the 5K run and walk will benefit the Jackie Joyner-Kersee (JJK) Foundation.
ABOUT JACKIE:
Having been named by Sports Illustrated as the 'Greatest Female Athlete of the 20th Century', Jackie Joyner-Kersee's athletic credentials are unquestionably among the best ever, in all of sport. A six time Olympic medalist, including three Olympic gold medals, Joyner-Kersee dominated the Olympic heptathlon and long jump events throughout her career which spanned four Olympic Games. Astonishingly, despite the advancements in technology and training used by athletes around the world over the last two decades, Jackie Joyner-Kersee still holds the World Heptathlon Record she set over 20 years ago at the 1988 Olympic Games in Seoul, Korea.
Jackie grew up in East St. Louis and was the first woman in history to earn more than 7,000 points in heptathlon. Having also earned six Olympic medals, Kersee still holds the world heptathlon record, as well as the Olympic and national records in the long jump.
In addition to being one of the top track-and-field athletes of all time, Kersee returned home to give back to her community. She established the JJK Foundation and JJK Center in East St. Louis 23 years ago to ensure children in the area have access to high quality after-school programs and a safe environment within the community.