Hillcrest Hound Dog Dash

The Hillcrest Hound Dog Dash is a family-oriented community running event held annually in Downers Grove, Illinois. Scheduled for the evening of Friday, May 15, 2026, the race is organized by the Hillcrest Elementary PTA. The event is designed to promote health, fitness, and community spirit among students, faculty, and local families, typically attracting over 350 participants.

Race Modalities and Fees

The event offers two distinct distances to accommodate different ages and fitness levels. Both races share the same registration fee, which includes all mandatory charges and fees.

Distance	Registration Fee	Start Time
3 Mile Run/Walk	$23.39	6:00 PM CDT
1 Mile Run/Walk	$23.39	6:00 PM CDT

Awards and Age Groups

First-place finishers are recognized across a wide variety of categories for both males and females. The 1-mile race is specifically emphasized for younger children, while older students and adults can compete in either distance.

Early Childhood: Pre-K & Under (1-mile only) and Kindergarten (1-mile only). Elementary: 1st Grade through 6th Grade (available for both 1-mile and 3-mile). Students: Middle School (7th–8th Grade) and High School (9th–12th Grade). Adults: Age 18+ category. Logistics and Event Schedule

The race is hosted at Hillcrest Elementary School, located on Jefferson Avenue. The evening features a post-race celebration to foster a sense of community. Packet Pick Up: Held at the school on May 13 and May 14 from 3:00 PM to 4:30 PM. Race day pickup is also available starting at 5:00 PM. After Race Party: The festivities continue after the run until 8:00 PM. Volunteer Incentives: The PTA offers significant registration discounts for volunteers: a 50% discount for 30-minute shifts and free registration for shifts of one hour or more.

Mission and Sponsorship

The Hillcrest PTA is a member of the Downers Grove Area Council of PTAs, serving District 58 and District 61. Funds raised through participant registrations and local business sponsorships are used to support educational enrichment programs and resources for students. The event emphasizes a partnership between local businesses and families to support the community's future.

For inquiries regarding the event or sponsorship opportunities, the primary contact is Ali Kemp.