Rotary Run Charity Classic

 

Hinsdale's Family Run

Join us for the 32nd annual Rotary Run Charity Classic!
The Rotary Run Charity Classic, Hinsdale's beloved family run, has been Running Strong for over 30 years! While much has changed over the decades, the heart of the event remains the same: affordable prices, a family-friendly atmosphere, and something for every runner, walker, and furry friend. The Rotary Run features 10K, 5K, and 3K run options, along with 5K and 3K walk and Mutt Strutt events. All proceeds support both local and international charitable efforts. Come celebrate tradition, community, and giving back—one step at a time!

 

VIEW 2025 RACE RESULTS HERE

 

 

 

Thank you to our Overall Sponsoring Organization for the 2026 Hinsdale Rotary Run Charity Classic:  U Chicago Medicine Advent Health Hinsdale

 

Event Information & Times

 

Races and Information

EVENT LOCATION: All events begin in Robbins Park, directly east of The Community
House at the intersection of 7th and Vine Streets and finish on 8th Street in front of
The Community House.
-Hinsdale Bank & Trust10K Run - 8:30am start
-The Rooney Family 5K Run - 8:45am start
-The MPS Loria Financial Planners 3K Run - 8:50am start
-The Jaguar-Land Rover Hinsdale  5K Walk- 8:55am start
-DeSitter Flooring 3K Walk - 8:55am start
-Murphy Construction The Mutt Strut - 8:55am start 

9:45 AM: School District 181 Mascot Race (At finish line) Race Awards and School
Awards

 

T-shirt & Bib Pick Up

T-shirt and bib pick up will be 10/3 from 10:00am-2:00pm and 10/4 from 7:00-8:30am at The Community House
In order to guarantee t-shirt size or quantity, all registrations must be in by September 10th.

 

Course Maps & information

Race Maps and Routes are available HERE

What is and is not allowed on the course?
The 10K and 5K runs do not allow bicycles, in-line skates, other wheeled vehicles
(except wheelchairs and hand cranks) and dogs. Baby joggers and strollers are allowed
in all events, but must line up at the back of the start line for the 10K and 5K runs.

Parking

There is plenty of street parking within several blocks of The Community House.
Additional parking is located at Madison School, 611 S Madison St, Hinsdale, IL 60521
at the Hinsdale Central High School, 5550 S Grant St, Hinsdale, IL 60521.

 

 

Event Refunds, Deferrals, and Cancellation Policy

This event is approved by the venue to occur as a live in-person event. Our participant guarantee is as follows: If this event is canceled due to COVID-19, participants will have the option to participate virtually, or to simply donate the registration fee to the Hinsdale Rotary Run Charity Classic. (participants choice).In all other circumstances, participants must agree that refunds and deferrals will NOT be issued for any reason, including participant injury, illness, and any other issues out of the control of the event, including, but not limited to cancellation due to weather/lightning.

The Rotary Club of Hinsdale was established in 1959.  We are a community organization of men and women of diversified backgrounds with a personal commitment to service.  In addition to our support of local and international organizations and projects (see “Where Does the Money Go” tab above), we regularly participate in the Hinsdale Fourth of July Parade and introduce our Rotary Run Grand Marshal of the year to the Village of Hinsdale, volunteer our time and donate resources to HCS Family Services and People’s Resource Center, and provide 100 free bikes and helmets to the kids of active Illinois military in our annual spring “Bikes for Military Kids” program, and among many others.  Annually, we host a youth exchange student from a foreign country. 

We meet every Friday at 12:15 at The Community House, located at 415 W. Eighth Street, Hinsdale.  For more information  or to visit our club, email us at hinsdalerotary@gmail.com.

Due to the continuing concerns about the novel coronavirus (COVID-19), organizations have been advised to avoid having large public gatherings at this time. In compliance with this directive, the Hinsdale Rotary Run Charity Classic has been transformed from an in-person run/walk format into a “virtual” race. A virtual race is almost exactly the same as an in-person race, but instead of running along the same course, participants can complete the 10K,5K & 3K run/walk races anywhere they choose.  You can race against your treadmill, take your laps around the neighborhood, or walk your dog for the day! The possibilities are endless, and YOUR 10K/5K/3K routing is up to you!

Registration Dates
Registration is open now! Online 2020 “virtual” Rotary Run registration will close on Sunday, September 27th, midnight.  In person registration will be available at the Community House, 10AM-2PM on Saturday Oct. 3rd and Sunday Oct. 4.

Race Information
We are requesting that all participants should complete their run/walk between Sunday, September 27 and Sunday October 4th. All participants who register will receive the 2020 commemorative “Virtual” Rotary Run 2020 t-shirt.  

There will be no “times submitted” for this year’s 2020 “Virtual” Rotary Run”.  So, for this year only, no medals or winning trophies will be awarded. Instead, we are asking participants to please submit #’s to our race registration site.  Be creative!  Show us how you are toting up your 10K, 5K, 3K distances.

T-shirt Pick Up
Friday and Saturday, 10am-2pm, Oct. 2nd and Oct. 3rd. Pick up will be appropriately social distanced.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Why should I run the Rotary Run Charity Classic?
This event supports the Rotary Club in it's international and local efforts, including these local non-profit organizations:
The Community House
D181 Foundation
Hinsdale Hospital Foundation
Rotary Foundation
Hanson Center-Ray Graham Association

 

Where does all the money go?
All monies cover event expenses and proceeds support the Rotary Club and the charitable beneficiaries.  


How much does it cost to run the race?
For all races; $25 for individual and $95 for families of 4 or more 
Be sure to subscribe to us to stay up to date on information about flash sales and price increases!

 

Do I get a t-shirt?
Yes! All participants will receive their Rotary Run Charity Classic t-shirt. 
T-shirt and bib pick up will be Saturday before the race, 8:00am-2:00pm and day of the race from 6:00am-8:30am, at The Community House 

 

What is the events refund, deferral, or cancellation policy?
This event is approved by the venue to occur as a live in-person event. Our participant guarantee is as follows: If this event is canceled due to COVID-19, participants will have the option to participate virtually, or to simply donate the registration fee to the Hinsdale Rotary Run Charity Classic. (participants choice).

In all other circumstances, participants must agree that refunds and deferrals will NOT be issued for any reason, including participant injury, illness, and any other issues out of the control of the event, including, but not limited to cancellation due to weather/lightning.

 

Who receives an award?
Trophies are aware to 1st, 2nd, and 3rd male and female for the Hinsdale Bank & Trust 10k Run and The Rooney Family 5k Run
Medals are aware to 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place male and female in the following age categories:
5 years, 6 years, 7 years, 8 years, 9 years, 10 years, 11 years, 12 years, and 13 years
14-19 years old
20-29 years old
30-39 years old
40-49 years old
50-59 years old
60-69 years old
70 years old +

 

Can I get involved with the race without running?
Absolutely! You can make a donation that will go directly to supporting the non-profit charitable beneficiaries by clicking the GIVE box above.
Additionally, we need hundreds of volunteers to make the race happen. There are plenty of spots to volunteer on your own or as a group. Everyone gets a t-shirt, other fun perks and the glory of being a volunteer hero. Check out our Volunteer page.  

 

How do I get my results?
If you are chip timed, there are two ways to find your results. 1) Check the Board at the conclusion of the race 2) Check HERE for official results. Results are typically available about 3 hours after the event.                                                                                                                                                                                                                        

IN TRAINING
Congratulations on making the commitment to the Rotary Run Charity Classic! Now it's time to get ready for this event. Below is a list of philosophies, ideas and hints to help you have a great day at the race.  There are MANY training guides available online to help to get started or to help you improve your race time.  Here is a link to legendary marathoner and trainer, Hal Higdon's site with training plans for many race distances.  His training guides are considered to be realistic and extremely effective by experts in the field.  Register now and start training!  

Frequency over Duration - Rather than trying to run "long", run "often". Running four times a week for 20 minutes is far better for your preparation than running only once a week for an hour and a half. Keep the body active and make this training a habit.
Walk or jog - It’s not necessary for running to be painful. Consider running in comfort for just a minute or a few minutes and then walking for a minute to bring your heart rate down. You can easily link this together for 20, 30, 40 minutes or more and make a great workout from a walk/jog approach.
Good form - It’s better to run with good form for a short period of time and then walk for a minute to refresh - than to have that form deteriorate and run poorly. Good running promotes more good running, and the ability to run well, faster and longer. Poor running risks injury and should be avoided. Break up your runs with short bits of walking to recover and refresh so you can run well again.
Remember running isn’t just about running, you also need whole body strength. Incorporate these exercises into your training (at the gym or at home).
Core - think of your core as the entire mid section of your body; not just your abs but also the lower back and the sides of your mid section. Perform crunches for the front, crunches while twisting for the side and to help the lower back, lie flat on your stomach and raise your torso off the ground.
Chest and Arms - classic combination movements will be a huge help on race day. Perform pushups (from toes or knees) pull ups (full body or assisted), chest presses and biceps curls (with a bar, dumbbells or resistance cord).
Added Leg Strength - these will assist you on the run and in lots of places along the way. Perform squats, not too deep and body weight is plenty) and lunges (keep the knees at 90 degrees).
Maintenance - With this new activity you would do well to add in a few things that will help heal you quickly after every workout so you'll be ready for another soon after.
Stretch - do this after each workout and be sure to get the calves, quads and hamstrings.
 
Hydrate - drink a bit more water than normal to help offset the fluid lost during exercise. An electrolyte drink can help too but mind those calories.
Food as Fuel - protein to repair muscles, low glycemic carbohydrates for longer lasting energy and good fat (nuts, nut butters, avocado, etc) all serve a purpose for you, the athlete.
Massage - after a solid workout a professional massage is great but even a firm "self massage" can help ease muscle discomfort and have you ready for the next day.

Participant safety is our #1 priority. The event will continue in rain but will be halted in the case of lightening and storms. 

Email updates will be sent for any further event changes

The Rotary Run Charity Classic donates all proceeds of the race to charity.  The charities chosen to receive donations make an impact not only locally in the west suburbs of Chicago, but also organizations that have an international impact.  We invite you to learn more about the great work of these charities listed below!

The Community House:
Based in Hinsdale and serving the surrounding suburbs, The Community House is a nonprofit organization that offers both community recreation and quality social services to people of all ages and walks of life.  We make a difference in the lives of thousands of families and individuals by providing local opportunities for athletics, arts and culture, counseling, education services, volunteer opportunities, and community connections. The Community House is vital to the western suburbs as an option for important services. The Counseling Center provides equitable access to mental health services regardless of ability to pay. Services are provided on an income based sliding scale or billed through insurance.  Residents of the unincorporated Willowbrook receive opportunities in recreation, education, and mental health through our Spark Youth Development Initiative. Programs and services provided by The Community House enrich the quality of life for people of all ages in our community.

Learn more about The Community House here

District 181 Foundation:
The District 181 Foundation delivers programming and resources to all members of the District 181 community to enrich and enhance our excellent educational system. Nationally renowned speakers, student enrichment programs (such as Young Writers Night - The 2020 Project), an after-school math assistance hotline, community service grants for students, and grants and professional development opportunities for teachers are just a few of the programs provided this year. Each year the District 181 Foundation continues to grow and innovate in collaboration with our community. Funds from the Rotary Run will be used to support our Young Writers Night Program. 
The District 181 Foundation is an independent 501(c)(3) organization established to inspire community involvement, pride, and support for the exceptional education provided to all District 181 students. Since its inception in 1997, the District 181 Foundation has invested nearly $1,500,000 in District 181 schools supporting students, teachers, and parents. 

Learn more about the District 181 Foundation here

Hinsdale Hospital Foundation:
The Foundation is your partner in supporting UChicago Medicine | AdventHealth.We dedicate our efforts to promoting community awareness and maximizing philanthropy to help the Hospital care for our friends, family and neighbors - as it has for over 100 years.
Your generous gifts made through Hinsdale Hospital Foundation sustain the many programs, new technologies, and enhanced services that bring comfort and healing to our communities. Your generosity heals.

Learn more about the Hinsdale Hospital Foundation here

Hanson Center/Ray Graham Association: 
To each of the nearly 2,000 children and adults with primarily intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families that we serve throughout DuPage County and the surrounding area, the Ray Graham Association means something different.
To some we represent independence and support. To others we mean safety and comfort. To some Ray Graham Association is family. To others we offer a better life and hope for the future. To others we stand for employment and training. And to some we mean access to resources, community, recreation, health, wellness and more.
And all of them are correct.
Because Ray Graham Association is all about empowering people with disabilities. And not everyone is empowered quite the same way.
With our broad array of educational, vocational, community, respite, early intervention, recreational, home-based and residential programs and services, we are able to find just the right way to empower each of the amazing, gifted individuals we serve.
Empowering people with disabilities has been our mission since 1950.
Their success has been, and will always be, what motivates and inspires us.

Learn more the Ray Graham Association here

Rotary Club of Hinsdale Foundation:
The Rotary Club of Hinsdale Foundation follows the tenets of The Rotary Foundation of Rotary International, headquartered in Evanston, Illinois, among the top U.S. foundations according to Charity Navigator.  The Rotary Foundation is an endowment fund that awards graduate, undergraduate, teacher and journalist scholarships for travel and study abroad.  Special grants support major immunization campaigns, health care, nutritional and humanitarian projects on four continents.  Through Rotary’s PolioPlus program nearly two billions children throughout the world have been immunized in conjunction with the World Health Organization and the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation. 
Hinsdale Rotary Foundation provides college scholarships for local high school seniors, supports HCS Family Services, People’s Resource Center, has provided financial and leadership assistance for sun ovens in underdeveloped countries, water supply systems in Mexico and Guatemala, assistance for national and international disaster relief, medical care, bicycles for children of vets, and many other humanitarian projects. 

Learn more about the Rotary club Foundation here

The Rotary Run Charity Classic is a celebration of the community.   Your sponsorship supports the international and local efforts of the Hinsdale Rotary Club, as well as the missions of local non-profit organizations that the Rotary Club includes as race beneficiaries.

Thank you to our Sponsors!  

Partnering with the Rotary Run Charity Classic is a very cost effective way to support your community while creating awareness of your company.  Let race participants and guests see what your organization has to offer!

The Rotary Run Charity Classic and the Rotary organization are renowned for putting on great events, and you have a chance to share in this success.

Sponsorship opportunities are still available.   

MPS-Loria's 3K Run: T-Shirt

The DeSitter Flooring 3K Walk: T-Shirt

The 5K Jaguar-Land Rover Hinsdale Walk: T-Shirt

The Rooney Family 5K Run: T-Shirt

Murphy Construction Mutt Strutt Dog Walk: T-Shirt

Hinsdale Bank & Trust 10K Run: T-Shirt

Become a Virtual Runner!: T-Shirt