Raceway 5K/3K

Raceway 5K/3KRun * WalkSaturday, August 8, 2026, at the former Meadowdale International Speedway in Carpentersville, Illinois, USA, offers a blend of nostalgia and fitness amidst rolling prairie landscapes. The event takes place on the N/W corner of Route 31 & Main Street/Huntley Road, just off the beaten path but still easily accessible from bustling downtown areas. This year marks its fourth edition, with thousands of runners and walkers returning to support local charities and celebrate their running community.
Carpentersville is a town that has seen many changes over the years, yet it retains much of its small-town charm. Race day will find participants surrounded by lush green forests and expansive fields, where the scent of wildflowers fills the air as you run along the historic tracks of Meadowdale International Speedway. The atmosphere on race morning will be one of excitement and camaraderie, with families gathering to cheer for friends and strangers alike. It's a community event that feels more like family reunion than just another day at work.
Raceway 5K/3KRun * Walk has been running since its inception in 2023, drawing participants from across the region who come not only for the challenge but also to support local causes such as scholarships and youth sports programs. In past years, thousands have participated, raising funds that benefit both immediate needs of Carpentersville residents and future generations.
The course itself winds through Raceway Woods Forest Preserve, offering a mix of paved paths and forest trails. Runners will start at the former grandstands, where the cheerleaders once practiced their routines, now replaced by enthusiastic supporters waving from nearby stands. The 3K run/walk covers approximately three kilometers, while the more ambitious can tackle the five-kilometer route. Both distances offer scenic views of the preserve and a true sense of the rural beauty that surrounds Carpentersville.
On race day, expect temperatures to hover around 22.5°C with a slight chance of light rain as humidity levels reach 71.9%. The course is on paved surfaces but may be slightly uneven due to natural conditions, so wear appropriate footwear and perhaps consider waterproof gear for the possibility of drizzle.