On April 21st, approximately 2,000 runners gathered at the Benedetti-Wehrli Stadium at North Central College in Naperville, Illinois to participate in Naperville Women’s Half Marathon & 5K.
The event route took athletes through downtown and some of the finest neighborhood of Naperville with sneaky hidden hills.
Approximately 1,100 participated in Half Marathon and 900 participated in 5k. This race is perfect for all levels or runners as the race has a generous 4-hour time limit to complete.
This race has been my annual events since the very beginning. For me, this race is one big “REUNION”. Sometimes so much has happened in our lives and it may be difficult to stay in touch consistently, but Naperville Women’s Half Marathon & 5K never disappoints me. This year was no different. I am so thankful that I got to see so many friends at the pre and post-race celebration. The race itself was challenging and the finish line surely gave me the sense of accomplishment.
I was very impressed with Naperville women’s half marathon & 5K taking initiative to reduce waste by offering reusable water cups, “Hiccups” as an alternative to disposable cups at aid station. Hiccup provides 8-ounce silicone cups and can be used for future events. On Sunday, we collectively saved over 9,000 cups from going to the landfill at the Naperville Women’s Half Marathon & 5K.
Karolina Gabarczyk, a resident of Romeoville, ran 13.1 miles along the side of her mother, Dorota Gabarczyk to celebrate Dorota’s birthday. This powerful mother-daughter duo has been inspiring each other through fitness and health. So, this is a perfect way to celebrate her Birthday.
Luz Maria Pacheco, a resident of Joliet, conquered her very first 13.1 miles on Sunday. “I started running to test my ability because I knew I still have a lot to accomplish, boundaries to surpass and challenge to overcome. The best part of the race was to see my husband at mile 7 and he gave me everything I need to push myself to cross the finish line. I am ready for my next challenge, the Bank of America Chicago Marathon in October.”
The registration for 2025 Naperville Women’s Half Marathon & 5K is officially open. You can register today using the code MYCHICAGOATHLETE to save $.
Congratulations to all Finishers!!
5K Winner:
1st Place Brynn Bartkus 20:01
2nd Place Kalli Dalton 21:15
3rd Place Charity Lane 21:27
Half Marathon Winner:
1st Place Grace Grimaldi 1:29:28
2nd Plac Christy Kennedy 1:29:38
3rd Place Jennifer Butch 1:30:03
