Annual Lew Blond Run Draws Over 550 Participants In Northbrook

NORTHBROOK, IL — For the 21st annual Lew Blond Run, officials said 550 participants took part in the 5k and 1-mile run, along with 35 kids (ages 6 and under) enjoying the first-ever Little Lew 50-year Dash.

“Today was amazing. It was so nice being back at Maple again. All of my friends/family that were there loved it," said Meridith Ade, Northbrook resident and former District 30 parent, according to Northbrook/Glenview School District 30.

Ade is also on the Lew Blond Run Executive Committee.

The winner of the 5K was Mark Dolgin; second place was Steven Clark, and third place was Henry Lato. The winner of the 1-Mile race was Eric Baczewski; second place was Timothy Gross, and third place was Jordan Zuercher. To view race results, go to lewblondrun.org.

RELATED: Lew Blond Memorial 5K Run/Walk Returns May 21 In Northbrook

This was the first Lew Blond Run to take place at the new Maple School. District 30 had planned on running the event in 2020, but COVID-19 got in the way of those plans. There was a smaller version of the race held at Wescott School in October 2021.

Funds raised from this event are donated for ALS research through the Les Turner ALS Foundation, used for scholarships at Glenbrook High School District 225, and for special Northbrook/Glenview School District 30 projects, according to officials. This year, the first-ever Lew Blond online auction took place, and was deemed successful by organizer, District 30 community member and Northbrook resident Ritu Singal.

The Lew Blond Run fundraiser was initiated after beloved Maple School applied technology teacher Lew Blond lost his battle with ALS in 2000. Every year since, Mr. Blond’s family has attended the event. This year was no different. His 97-year old mother, Mariette Blond, and sister, Barb Blond, were at the race, and were so happy to see the ongoing support of the community.

"What a special day. I am grateful to staff and community volunteers for their help and support to make this a memorable and meaningful event for the community and District 30," Principal Sam Kurtz said. "Thank you to all of you for your commitment and team work to make this race a huge success."

“Everything was so well organized. I am so proud of everyone who put this beautiful event together,” Superintendent Dr. Brian Wegley said.