This year’s Elgin Valley Fox Trot drew more than 700 runners, making it one of the city’s most successful in-person events this year. Organizers say they hope the success motivates the city council to sponsor it again next year.
Eighteen months ago, the Fox Trot’s future was uncertain when the city decided to suspend special events, said Tim Williams, co-organizer of the 44th annual Fox Trot held in June. Councilman John Steffen asked Williams if he and the Kenyon Farm Runners would be willing to organize and the 10k and 5k race.
“We decided to take on the challenge,” Williams said. The 2020 Fox Trot, however, turned into a virtual race due to the pandemic, he said. It was a disappointment it couldn’t be held in person, “but the 43rd annual Fox Trot did, indeed, happen,” he said.
The state started lifting restrictions as part of its Restore Illinois plan that allowed the 2021 Fox Trot to be held live with social distancing and other precautions. “I’m here to report some good news and say thank you,” Williams said at last week’s city council meeting.
“We were able to hit our objectives not only to keep the race alive and the tradition going, but we raised significant dollars for Elgin nonprofits,” Williams said. “It was very cool to see.”
More than 700 runners registered and over 100 volunteers helped run the race, Williams said. There were many spectators, local business participation, and a big post-race party, he said. It couldn’t have happened without Elgin’s financial support, city staff, volunteers, and local businesses, he said.
“Thank you. It was an extraordinary event. We couldn’t have done it without you,” Williams said.
Area nonprofits that benefited include the Boys and Girls Club of Elgin, the Elgin Lions Club, Kiwanis Club, Association for Individual Development, The Elgin Salvation Army, and Friends of the Fox River, said Ed Bates, co-organizer. He’s a member of the Elgin Lions Club.
“We collected close to $16,000 for those groups,” Bates said. The money is used for local projects, he said. “In light of the success, we would sincerely appreciate finical support from the city again for 2022.”
Elgin earmarked $10,000 for the race. Next year’s race is scheduled June 5. Registration begins in January.
Gloria Casas is a freelance reporter for the Courier-News.
