This Year's Bonfield Express 5K Sets a New Record

Submitted by the Bonfield Express Foundation.

DOWNERS GROVE, IL — Despite the grey weather on Thanksgiving morning, spirits soared at the 13th annual Bonfield Express 5K. The 2016 race proved to be the most popular year to date with 6,250 registrants setting a new registration record. The race is held each year on the downtown and neighboring streets of Downers Grove.

Commenting on social media, Downers Grove Mayor Martin Tully said, “There’s just no better way to begin Thanksgiving Day than with a crisp jog through the streets of downtown Downers Grove with about 6,200 of my closest friends!”

The top male finishers in the 2016 Bonfield Express 5K were: 1) Michael Lifson of Downers Grove, IL, 2) Jeremy Craven also of Downers Grove, and 3) Matt Richtman of Elburn, IL. The top female finishers were 1) Audrey Borling of LaGrange, IL, 2) Keegan Kilrea of LaGrange Park, IL, and 3) Alyssa Poremba of Chicago.

One of the largest annual events held in Downers Grove, the race is a Thanksgiving morning tradition in this charming western suburb. It has become so much a part of the local fabric that members of the community, especially those living along its scenic route, have gotten involved, cheering on racers from their lawns and porches and passing out treats to the those who run or walk in the 5K race.

Area high school students are also heavily involved in the race, some as race participants and others who lend their support as volunteers. Lydia Walsh-Rock, a senior at Downers Grove South High School, sang the Star Spangled Banner while David Raineri, a junior at Downers Grove South, sounded the train whistle that serves as the official start of the race.

Mascots from Downers Grove South and Hinsdale Central high schools were there to liven up the grey morning and the Downers Grove South Jazz Ensemble greeted racers as they crossed the finish line.

Race participants socialized at a post-race party held in the Downers Grove Parking Garage. The event featured complimentary water, fruit and breakfast snacks provided by a new sponsor, Fresh Thyme of Downers Grove. Peet’s Coffee & Tea served up thousands of cups of coffee and hot chocolate to race participants who gathered to talk with neighbors and friends before heading off to their Thanksgiving feasts.

The race began in 2004 as a way to honor the memory of Downers Grove South father, teacher, dean and coach Jim Bonfield. Funds generated through the race provide scholarship assistance to select students who reflect his personal example of strong moral character, commitment and love of community.

Since 2004, the Bonfield Express Foundation has distributed more than $350,000 in scholarships to 159 west suburban seniors attending high school at Downers Grove North, Downers Grove South, Hinsdale Central, Hinsdale South, Lisle, and Westmont High Schools.

This year, the Foundation also donated $1,000 to each of the 20 schools in Downers Grove School District 58 and Woodridge School District 68 to recognize students who demonstrate a love of learning, extra effort and/or good citizenship.

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All photos courtesy of Dianne Hlinsky. For more photos, click here.