Events
12 Mile Relay - 4 Person Team
Event Description
Join us for a historic day of running on the fastest course along Chicago’s Lakefront! On Sunday September 7, 2025 Lake Effect Community Development (501c3) will host the inaugural Time and a Half Race at Steelworkers Park, adjacent to the future site of the Illinois Quantum and Microelectronics Park.
The South Chicago community boasts a rich and storied history. For over a century, this area was synonymous with American Steel production. The spirit of this race pays homage to that legacy, exemplified by the saying: “We are all created equal, but only the finest worked at US Steel South Works.” This event is not merely a Fun Run; it’s a celebration of the hardworking grit and determination passed down through generations of Steelworkers. We honor their relentless pursuit of a better future for their families and South Chicago, ensuring that Chicago never forgets its roots as we shape our community narrative for the years to come.
Together we will make history on the Southeast Side of Chicago as we pay homage to the past while gazing toward the future.
12 Mile Relay & 5K Details
Teams of four runners will "Clock in and Lock in," with each runner completing a 3-mile loop and handing off to teammates for the 12 miles!
The teams must include 2 male and 2 female runners, each able to complete a 3-mile loop in the team finish time of 3 hours and 40 minutes.
For those that wish to race this fast, flat course on scenic S DuSable Lake Shore Drive as an individual, there is a 5K course option.
Know Before You Go
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BIB AND TSHIRT PICK UP Bib and t-shirt pickup will take place at Steel Workers Park behind the Tribute to the Past Statue. Bib pick- up will begin at 6:45am and will end at 7:45am.
GETTING TO STEELWORKERS PARK Coming from North on Lakeshore Drive - Continue to take South Shore Drive until it turns to Baker, continue on Baker, then Baker becomes E 85th St and you turn right at E 85th St and Burley onto South Burley. Take Burley to 87th St. to the light. At the light turn left, onto 87th St. When you arrive to the corner of S Mackinaw and 87th St, turn Right to park on S Mackinaw Ave. Coming from South - take South Mackinaw Ave to 87th St and South Mackinaw Ave to park. South Lake Shore Drive will be closed to Vehicular traffic from 79th St to 92nd St. Once you have parked you can walk east on 87th St and take the street to the park.
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Race Course Information Both the Relay & 5K course take you from Steel Workers Park entrance, west on 87th St, North on S DuSable Lakeshore Drive to the turnaround at S Farragut Drive and back. The 5K course has a turn west on 87th St and then back to the park as indicated on the course map. The relay course is the 3 mile loop in blue and the 5K course is the 3.1 mile loop in yellow. |
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What to bring: We encourage you to bring picnic area items like lawn chairs etc and treats to enjoy in post race celebrating. We will have beverages like Aquafina water and Gatorade compliments of Pepsico. We will have post race refreshments from Bobo's and Trufru. You are encouraged to bring whatever you need to enjoy a morning picnic in the park. Alcohol is not allowed at the event. Post Race Activities After the race has concluded, awards will be announced in the park. There will be awards for the first place overall relay team that completes the full team 12 mile course in the fastest time. Additionally, there will be award recognition for the fastest female and male finisher for the 5K course. Afraid you're not fast enough to win the race? You can win with TEAM SPIRIT! The relay team that brings the most energy and spirit to the race course will be awarded a prize. How do you show your spirit? Be creative! Wear costumes, use a color theme, a creative handoff gesture, decorate a 10x10 space in the park. You decide! Volunteers Please arrive no later than 6:30am to help setup. See Gabi with Volunteer duties. If you need to bring items to drop off at Steelworkers Park, please do so by 6:30am so you can park and walk over. No vehicles are allowed on the course. |
Contact Form
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