Community members of Downers Grove were able to experience the Thanksgiving Grove Express 5K on Nov. 24. Families enjoyed either walking or running the race route; the entire community was able to enjoy nice weather as they participated. There were a total of around 5,757 registrants this year.

People dressed up in costumes and both mascots from DGS and DGN arrived for pictures. There was a large audience of people supporting runners, including a group of people handing out bacon within their “Carpe Bacon” and “Just Bacon” stations, just like the actual race, this has become a tradition. Junior and runner Sara Ryan shared her experience.

“I got free bacon, it was kind of under-cooked though, but it was still good. There were a lot of people dressed up in costumes, I’m pretty sure there was a guy dressed up as a Care Bear and a guy as a turkey. The race was pretty great, the weather was nice and a lot of people were cheering each other on,” Ryan said.

Nicole Walus, Chair of the Grove Express 5K Junior Board of Directors, shares where the funds of the 5K go.

“One of the most rewarding parts of this race for me is knowing the money we raise goes right back into the community. I can’t wait to distribute the funds raised to local groups that could use it to continue doing great things,” Walus said.

Walus further adds on about the challenges of creating and maintaining the race.

“One of the challenges in creating a race like this is simply the amount of time and organization that goes into it. We had a great amount of help from the previous race directors, the Bonfield Express board, and other members, and that has been instrumental in guiding the Grove Express team in the right direction,” Walus said.

Volunteer Audrey Ward, shares the volunteering side behind 5K.

“It’s a great cause, it’s a wonderful way to start the Thanksgiving holiday. The energy is good and it is a lot of fun. I volunteered twice before and I always had a great time,” Ward said.

Walus adds her favorite part of the race.

“My favorite part is probably getting to celebrate our special community with my family, knowing that the work we put in will be given back to a variety of community organizations. I always like to stop for a moment on the morning of the race and just look down Main Street. It’s an amazing sight,” Walus said.