What could be better than a run along the banks of the DuPage River on a warm fall day? When those enjoying the activity are using it to raise money for the Academy of the Arts.
Last week we partnered with Naperville fitness company Shred415 to launch our first 5k run. It attracted runners of all levels but the one thing they had in common was that they’re already looking forward to doing it again next year.
“The 5K was such a fun event for us to bring our community together on a beautiful day in support of the arts,” said AOTA co-founder and executive director Dylan Ladd. “Our partners at Shred415 made the experience seamless. We can’t wait to plan our next one!
“It was really special to see so many people embody our organizational mission of creating a home for everyone to feel safe. We had career runners, first time runners, first time walkers, and everyone in between. It was a supportive experience for everyone to get out and just have fun.”
For studio manager Ashlee Wozniak, the run was just another example of something they do regularly.
“We are ALWAYS catering to all levels,” she said. “We even have a Sunday run club (@runwithvim) that meets each Sunday morning at 7:30AM for a 30 minute out and back on the DuPage River Trail. Some of us walk it, some of us jog, some run…it all depends on how we’re feeling that day. And this is what we would say to anyone wanting to participate in a 5K.”
Ashlee says Shred415 is always happy to partner with anyone in the community.
“Dylan came to us with the idea and he is so personable and passionate about his work that we wouldn’t have a reason to not do it,” she said.
If you’re new to running, the gym can offer classes to help. Ashlee says their format is the same for everyone: four, 15-minute intervals alternating between treadmill drill and strength/HIIT interval training.
“If you’re a runner, you enjoy the drills and the feel/comfort of the Woodway treadmills. If you’re not a runner, this is a way to make you feel comfortable running at the level you choose. We cater to everyone and really strive for this in all our classes,” she said.
With Halloween only a week away, many of the runners showed up in costume. Not surprisingly first back were seasoned Shred415 members, followed by some of our loyal students, their parents and board members looking for a fun way to support our mission. Thanks to everyone who helped raise $1,500.
