Sports

Darien Dash Races into Town

There are a number of new features to this year's race. Also inside: An interactive map of the courses.

More than 400 runners are expected to stream through Darien’s Hinsbrook neighborhood Sunday for the 12th annual Chamber of Commerce Darien Dash.

The springtime tradition, however, got a bit of a facelift this year.

For the first time, runners will be timed more precisely with an electronic chip inside their bib. The chip will trigger the timer once runners pass through the starting gate and shut off as soon as they cross the finish line.

Find out what's happening in Darienwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

The Darien Dash also got an endorsement this year from the Chicago Area Runners Association. The seal means that it’s a high quality race and that CARA members can earn points toward distance and participation awards.

Though the race will start at , from there runners will follow new courses for the 5K and 10K races, drawn by Dash committee member Jason Gabel.

Find out what's happening in Darienwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

There will also be a race expo from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. the day before the Dash at the . Runners can register online by the end of the day Thursday or in person at the expo at a discounted rate. Runners can pick up their race packets during the expo or on race day. 

First place overall finishers in the 1-mile, 5K and 10K races will get a trophy. As a bonus for the littlest runners, each of the kids who participate in the Fun Run will get a medal.

With opportunities for racers young and old, the Dash has become a beloved Darien tradition. 

“The fact that it’s a community event and we give back to our local schools and youth organizations makes it special and well attended,” chamber President Clare Bongiovanni said.

The first race starts at 8:30 a.m. Sunday at Darien Community Park. For more information, visit www.dariendash.com. Click the map above to see Darien Dash race routes. Green = 10K; Purple = 5K; Magenta = 1 mile


Get more local news delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up for free Patch newsletters and alerts.

We’ve removed the ability to reply as we work to make improvements. Learn more here