Distance Night in Palatine (IL) is a unique fusion of elite distance racing, music, and fun. Designed to bring the best high school runners together from throughout Illinois and the Midwest, the event also serves as a charity fundraiser for Special Olympics and the MORE Foundation. Amid the racing at the 800, 1600, and 3200 meter distances, we also host a Special Olympics 800 meter race. This race allows us to celebrate the true meaning of competition – to run the race to the best of your ability. To encourage the largest crowd possible, admission is by either a donation of $5 to Special Olympics or a gently used pair of shoes to the MORE Foundation.

The event has exploded in popularity since its inception four years ago, and the donation model for admission has had its desired effect as we had more than 2,000 spectators on Saturday, April 20 this year. Our donations to the MORE Foundation echo that growth. Four years ago, we raised 6 boxes of shoes. That increased to 8 in year two, 10-11 in year three, and now 18 in year four. We are truly staggered by the generosity of the Distance Running Community and have now been able to donate $11,700 to Special Olympics over four years.