2 running events in Belvidere, Illinois

Hug An Athlete 5K

Run * Walk * Roll

1:00 PM Start

Sunday February 22, 2026

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER!!

Presented by

Belvidere Park District

Special Recreation

All net proceeds from the “Hug An Athlete” 5K will benefit the Belvidere Park District's Special Recreation Pirate athletes. The funds will be used towards new sports equipment, uniforms, scholarships for athletes in need, and it will help to grow the program to offer more Special Olympics sports.

The Belvidere Park District's Special Recreation “Pirates” athletes have the option to play in 8 different sports: Spring—Track & Field/Bocce, Summer—Bowling/Softball/Volleyball/Flag Football, and Fall—Basketball/Snowshoe. Our programs have grown over the years and with your participation in the "Hug An Athlete" 5K we will be able to offer more to our great group of athletes.

This year, athletes will meet you at the finish line ready with hugs, fist bumps and high fives!

Welcome to the Boone County Spirits Run at Coach’s Corner!

We’re excited to bring our statewide mission to Belvidere as we continue our journey to complete all 102 Illinois counties. Coach’s Corner Bar & Grill will proudly serve as our Boone County stamp, and we can’t wait to celebrate this stop with you.

Spirits Run events are relaxed, social 5Ks where runners and walkers explore a local route, visit a historic cemetery, and return for great drinks, great food, and great company. This is not a timed race — it’s a fun morning with fun people.

What’s Included

One cocktail at Coach’s Corner

One small bite to eat

Official Spirits Run T‑shirt

Woodie‑style wooden medal

Boone County stamp for your Adventure Book

A fun, friendly crowd and a great local atmosphere

Join us as we explore Belvidere, enjoy a beautiful route to the cemetery and back, and celebrate another county on our mission to complete all 102.

We can’t wait to see you at Coach’s Corner!