By Jared Curtis

Participants at last year’s event show off their holiday spirit. The 2011 Jingle Jam 5K takes place on Saturday, Dec. 3 starting at 8:30 a.m. at the south suburban YMCA, 401 E. Army Post Road. Register for $30 until Dec. 2, $35 after. For more information, visit getmeregistered.com/jinglejam.

Annual run chills competitors

As the winter months approach, more and more runners take their workout inside to avoid the cold. But that doesn’t have to be the case as numerous events challenge runners to hit the cold pavement and power through the frigid air, which is exactly what will happen at the 7th Annual Jingle Jam 5K.

“This one of our biggest events in helping to raise funds for the South Suburban YMCA Partner with Youth Programming,” said race director Jen Downe. “The Y doesn’t turn anyone away for financial reasons, so all the proceeds from this event help fund programs. It’s a great event and always a lot of fun.”

Downe has seen the race evolve into more of an event, with more participants signing up every year.

“When I took over five or six years ago, we only had 90 people. Last year we had more than 350 people,” she said. “We’re hoping to match that number again this year. There are a lot of events that weekend, so hopefully we’ll reach our goal.”

The event features two different events — a walk and a run — for participants of all ages and skill levels. The main event is the 5K race, which starts at the YMCA and winds around the south side going through parks and neighborhoods. The second event is a one-mile Hot Chocolate walk.

“Both events are so much fun. Runners like the course because it takes them through areas they might not be familiar with,” Downe said. “And the walk is a lot of fun. People walk a half-mile then they get a cup of hot chocolate and a candy cane, then walk back. It’s an easier course and adds something fun for people who don’t want to run the 5K but still participate in the event.”

For Jingle Jam, costumes are key. Dressing up and the wearing of holiday bells are encouraged. Downe says the race draws all kinds of costumes.

“The costume contest is really popular, and we have some great prizes for the best group and individual costumes. We actually have a panel of judges for the contest. Everyone parades in front of them and then they decide the winners. It adds a fun element and people really seem to enjoy it,” she said. “We also encourage everyone to wear bells even if they are wearing a costume or not. We also give away a prize to the most jingly person.”

Along with prizes for costumes and bells, top finishers also take home medals.

“We give a medal and gift card to the top overall male and female finishers,” Downe said. “Then we break it down into age groups, with the top three finishers in each age group receiving medals. We also have a number of raffles and giveaways throughout the day. So everyone has a chance to win something.”

New to the race this year is chip timing, which allows runners to get their official times much quicker than in the past.

“This is our first year using chip timing, and we’re excited,” Downe said. “A lot of runners like them, so we wanted to try it, and hopefully it’ll work out and we can keep doing it.”

Although the temperatures may be below freezing on race day, Downe says the race will warm you and keep you active during the holiday season.

“It’s a fun race, and all the proceeds go towards a great cause. We have warm-ups prior to the race with Mrs. Claus and a great post race party,” she said. “Plus, you burn more calories when you’re running in the cold, so it’s a great way to stay motivated and in shape during the winter.” CV