The Midway 5K is back! On Sunday, Sept. 13, runners and walkers will take over the airfield at Chicago Midway International Airport for one of the city’s most distinctive races — a 3.1-mile course on an actual runway, according to the Chicago Department of Aviation’s “Fly Chicago” magazine.
The event returns after a pandemic hiatus with the same draw that made it unique: the chance to run on an active airport’s tarmac.
This year, proceeds benefit Special Children’s Charities, an organization that provides equal chances for inclusive growth, education and life-enriching programs for children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities across Chicago.
“This event connects community, aviation, and philanthropy in a truly unique way while creating greater opportunities for children and adults with disabilities across our city,” said Dr. Smita Shah, CEO of SPAAN Tech and Midway Management Group, who chairs the board of Special Children’s Charities. “I can’t wait to see our city rally around our special athletes while showcasing Midway Airport.”
Emerging from Chicago’s hosting of the first international Special Olympics at the city’s Soldier Field in 1968, SCC was founded in 1969 by its originators to become the permanent local fundraising arm for adaptive sports and recreation programming. Later SCC was expanded to support persons with intellectual and physical disabilities.
The charity focuses on partnerships with trusted local organizers, implementing public systems with flexible, responsive investment so funding can easily shift and change in response to community needs.
SCC continues to partner with the Chicago Park District and Public Schools providing year-round sports, Special Olympics training, recreational programs, therapy and school support according to Philanthropy.org.
The race is presented in partnership with the Chicago Department of Aviation, Southwest Airlines, and Midway Management Group and hosted by the Southwest Side of Chicago, said “Fly Chicago.”
Mayor Brandon Johnson called the event a reflection of Chicago’s values in the magazine article.
“The work Special Children’s Charities does is an example of everything great about Chicago; a dedication to making the world a more inclusive place while supporting the hard work and competitive spirit of some of our city’s most inspiring young people,” the mayor said. “I’m proud to welcome this run to Midway International Airport, and I hope you’ll join us out there this fall.”
The event is designed for all fitness levels. Beyond the main 5K, organizers are offering the Midway Miler, a 1-mile race for children 10 and under. Participants can register as individuals or form teams and set fundraising goals.
Registration is open now at secure.qgiv.com/event/midway5k/. Entry fees are $20 for participants 16 and under and $50 for adults. Registration includes a race bib, commemorative T-shirt, and other items.
Amy Taylor, Executive Director of Special Children’s Charities, emphasized what the runway setting means for the organization’s participants.
“It doesn’t get more unique than the opportunity to be a part of a 5K on a runway at Midway International Airport,” she said. “We look forward to seeing everyone at the return of the Midway 5K on September 13.”
Ald. Marty Quinn (13th), whose ward includes the Southwest Side location, highlighted the community aspect of the event.
“We’re proud to host this event on the Southwest Side of Chicago,” he said. “It’s a great opportunity for neighbors and community members to come together in support of an organization that does so much good.”
The race begins at 8 a.m. on Sunday, September 13. Additional details about prizes and race-day incentives will be announced in the coming weeks.
Inspiring participants to dream big, overcome obstacles, and achieve their goals, the Midway 5K represents a rare opportunity for the organization’s athletes and their families to participate in an event that is both competitive and celebratory.
For more information or to register, visit secure.qgiv.com/event/midway5k/.