Hornets Hustle to Raise Money for Hinsdale South Athletics

The stadium scoreboard, baseball field renovations and wrestling room murals at all share one thing in common: The Hinsdale South Athletic Club paid for them. 

On April 15, the club will continue to support the high school’s athletic programs by hosting the Hornet Hustle 5K, one of its two major annual fundraisers.

“(The Athletic Club) has been wonderful,” said Athletic Director Tim Feigh. “They’re able to purchase the large-ticket items that a lot of times the school district can’t pay for.” 

This year’s race starts at and loops 3.1 miles through the neighborhood to the west. The event is open to both runners and walkers.

Kids can get in on the race-day action, too, through the Youth 1-Mile Race or the Tot Trot, which Athletic Club President Brad Drake describes as a “little tiny run” for the youngest racers.

“If parents are doing the 5K, it’s a good thing to have the kids involved,” he said.

Last year about 375 people participated in the races. This year’s turnout could wind up being higher thanks to an endorsement from the Chicago Area Runners Association (CARA). CARA selected the 1-mile race as a 2012 Youth Circuit Race, which means participating young people can earn points toward CARA awards.

Advance Hornet Hustle registration is $25 for the 5K and $18 for the Youth 1-Mile. It costs an extra $5 to register on race day. There’s a $50 prize for the top male and female 5K runners.

All the proceeds go directly to help Hinsdale South athletic programs, making it a great way to do something good for yourself and the school, Drake said. 

“It promotes a healthy lifestyle and helps everyone in the community get together,” he said. “Overall it’s a very good cause.” 

Check-in for the Hornet Hustle takes place from 7-8:15 a.m. The Youth 1-Mile kicks off at 8:40 a.m.; the 5K begins at 9 a.m.; and the Tot Trot starts at 9:50 a.m. Awards will be presented at 10 a.m. For more information or to register, visit the Hornet Hustle website.