Ben's Memorial Mile

Ben's Memorial Mile

Ben's Memorial Mile is a running event held in Downers Grove, Illinois, organized by a nonprofit organization. The event serves to raise awareness for mental health research and suicide prevention while celebrating a passion for running. The races take place in the vicinity of Fishel Park, which serves as a central hub for the event's activities.

The event features two distinct mile-long races on the track:

• Open Mile: This race is intended for participants and walkers who complete the distance at a pace slower than 6:30 per mile.
• Elite Mile: This race is designated for participants capable of running a mile in 6:30 or faster.

Both races are chip-timed, and participants must pick up their race bibs at the start/finish line. Registration includes an event T-shirt for those who meet the deadline and a complimentary raffle ticket. Awards are presented across various age categories, including 19 and under, 20-29, 30-39, 40-49, 50-59, 60-69, and 70+ years old.

The venue at Fishel Park hosts a community festival featuring live music, free concessions, informational booths, and activities such as cornhole and a kids' tent. Parking is available for free in downtown Downers Grove, though parking on the course itself or on Grove Street at Fishel Park is not permitted. Facilities including bathrooms are located at the north end of the park's bandshell. For safety, bicycles and in-line skates are prohibited on the course. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.

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