Lemont's Annual Quarryman Challenge Set for Saturday

Hundreds of runners—including Lemont Patch Editor Amanda Luevano—will hit the hilly streets of Lemont on Saturday for the seventh annual Advocate Good Samaritan Quarryman Challenge.

The 10-mile and 5K races start and finish in downtown Lemont, weaving through scenic areas of the village throughout both courses.

The 5K (3.1 miles) will begin at 7:30 a.m. in front of , 418 Main St. The 10-mile race starts five minutes later, at the intersection of Main and Julia streets.

Race director Dave Fako that more than 600 people had registered to run.

“It’s different and unique,” he said, adding that participants range from elite runners to casual joggers. “We have a nice setting where it’s easy to watch the race from the downtown area too.”

The following streets will be closed during the races:

• Main Street from Julia Street to the bridge
• Lemont Street from Illinois Street to the I&M Canal
• Stephen Street from Illinois Street to Main Street
• The crossing at Main and Holmes streets

The will divert traffic around these closures. All streets are expected to be reopened by 11 a.m. or earlier.

New this year to the Quarryman is a youth category for runners ages 12 and under. The children can participate for a discounted rate, and are eligible for age group awards.

After the race there will be a party and awards ceremony near the finish line. Participants and volunteers will be treated to free food and drinks from area businesses including 3 Corners Grill & Tap and The Vault. Plaques made of stone from local quarries and prize money for top runners will also be distributed.

“It’s just a fun, well-organized event,” Fako said, adding that in the past few years the race has succeeded in its goal of promoting Lemont and raising awareness of the businesses and opportunities for outdoor activities, such as running, that are available there.

All entry fees and sponsorship money for the race is used to pay for the various costs of the event, but Fako said any leftover funds will be put toward trail marker signs and to promote outdoor recreation and events in the village.

Information on the the race route can be found at www.quarrymanchallenge.com.

Results will be posted online shortly after the event at http://onlineraceresults.com/event/view_event.php?event_id=8429.

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 

Like what you see? Sign up for our daily email newsletter.

Like us on Facebook for a slightly different take.