Tinley Park, Illinois · Sunday, March 1, 2026
The Running O' the Green 8K Run is a 8k and running event held on Sunday, March 1, 2026. It is located at 8125 W 171st St in Tinley Park, Illinois.
Running o’ the Green 8K
8:00 am
Bettenhausen Recreation Center
Race day registration opens at 7:00 AM
The Homewood Flossmoor Community Running Club challenges all Chicagoland Clubs to compete in the 4th annual South-Southwest Suburban Club Challenge.
Area clubs can form 3 person teams of all males, all females, or co-ed- both for high school, open, and masters. The times of the three finishers will be added up to determine the Champions in each division.
Unattached runners are welcome.
Following the race participants can receive one free appetizer at our awards ceremony at Oliver's in Oak Forest starting at 8:00 PM.
Email bob@ilpreptoptiming to get your club registered and receive a $15 discount for members of your club.
This Wednesday evening race kicks off at 7:00 PM and runs through the trails of Yankee Woods.
The Start and Finish of the race is at Yankee Woods, approximately 166th & Central Ave. in Tinley Park.
Top three overall individuals will receive awards, as well as the top three in each of the following age groups:
14 & Under
15-19
20-24
25-29
30-34
35-39
40-44
45-49
50-54
55-59
60-64
65-69
70 & Older
Tails on the Trail 5K & 1-Mile Wag & Walk along the Old Plank Road Trail, bringing our community together for a fun, inclusive event benefiting the animals of South Suburban Humane Society.
Participants can choose between two ways to take part:
Tails on the Trail 5K- a professionally timed 5K for runners looking for an accurate, high-quality race experience.
1-Mile Wag & Walk- a relaxed, accessible walk designed for participants of all abilities, families, and friendly, leashed pets.
Whether you’re racing for a personal best or strolling alongside your four-legged friend, every step supports pets in need. Registration includes entry into either the 5K or the Wag & Walk, allowing participants to choose the experience that best fits their pace and comfort level.
Proceeds from the event help provide lifesaving care for animals at South Suburban Humane Society, including medical treatment, spay/neuter services, food, and daily care while pets await loving homes.
Join us on the trail to walk, run, and wag your way toward second chances, because every step brings hope.
Join us for the Inaugural Catch the Elf race on December 20th. This Christmas themed race benefits the Toy Box Connection Children's Charity.
Date and Location: December 19, 202 at NEW LOCATION IN 2026- TBA
Race Format: Each race (the 5k and the 10k) will have its own race elf. The elf will get a one minute thirty second head start. If you finish before the elf, you will win a special prize!
Awards: Each chip timed race will have awards for the Top 3 overall as well as the top 3 males and females in various age groups.
Santa's Presence: Santa will be on site to hear Children's Christmas Wishes.
Secret Santa: Drop off a $15 or less running related gift to choose a secret Santa gift after your race.
Secret Santa Participation
Anyone interested in participating in our secret Santa can bring a small (value of $10-$15) running related gift. Turn it in, wrapped, at packet pickup, and you will get a special sticker on your bib to allow you to pick from the secret Santa pile after the race. First come, first serve. No exchanging of gifts after you have chosen one.
Race Start Time: Both races will start at 9:00 AM
Packet Pickup: Packet pickup will be held on Friday, December 18th as well as race morning starting at 7:30 AM.
Friday packet pickup will be at Running for Kicks, 7158 W. 127th Street, Palos Heights from Noon to 6pm.
Gear Check: We will have a gear check. We request that you keep all valuables in a safe location.
Awards Pickup: There will not be an awards ceremony. If you finish in the top 3 in your age group, please pick up your award before leaving the race site.
Results and Shirts
Live Results: Live results will be available online at www.ilpreptoptiming.com.
Shirts: A long sleeve shirt is included with your registration fee.
For the Kids
Santa's Visit: Santa will make a special visit to hear kids Christmas wishes.
Kids Race: There will be a kids race for those 8 and younger.
About Toy Box Connection
How Toy Box Connection Works: www.toyboxconnection.com
Mission: Our mission is to connect children in need with toys and books.
Operation: We accept new and used toy/book donations and redistribute them to children through other non-profits.
Community Engagement: We conduct fundraising events to support our mission and improve literacy scores in schools.
Future Programs: We hope to initiate an Athletes Work Program for high school students.
Contributions on Race Day
While Toy Box Connection will never turn down donated gifts, they request gift cards from Amazon or Target to help them purchase gifts that match their demand. If you wish to donate, Legos are a great gift, as they are neither age nor gender restricted.