Nikki Cozzi-Carso Scholarship Annual 5K Presented by Chicago Canicross Club

Nikki Cozzi-Carso Scholarship Fund NCCS 5K Presented by the Chicago Canicross Club Location Deer Grove-East Picnic Grove #4 Palatine, IL 60074 Date November 14, 2026 Race Start 10:00 AM Join us for the NCCS 5K, a fun and family-friendly event open to runners, walkers, and canicrossers* (yes, bring your dog along!). Whether you’re chasing a personal best, enjoying a morning stroll, or letting your pup lead the way, there’s a place for you at the starting line. All proceeds support the Nikki Cozzi-Carso Scholarship Fund. The fund provides financial aid to local Catholic school students and helps continue Nikki Cozzi-Carso’s legacy through faith-based education rooted in academic excellence, compassion, and service. Donate to the Scholarship Fund Race Highlights Scenic 5K trail with a paved option available Canicross-friendly course for you and your dog Awards for top finishers, both two- and four-legged Post-race refreshments and community fun T-shirt for all participants registered by October 1 Wear Purple for Pancreatic Cancer Awareness November is Pancreatic Cancer Awareness Month, and purple is the color of support. Join us in raising awareness by wearing purple at the race. Together, we’ll honor those impacted, spread hope, and show our commitment to the fight against pancreatic cancer. Running Canicross? To participate in the canicross event, you’ll need the following gear to keep both you and your dog safe and comfortable: Canicross Belt A padded waist belt that allows hands-free running and helps distribute pulling force safely. Bungee Line A 1.5–2 meter (5–6.5 feet) elastic line that connects you to your dog and absorbs shock while running. Dog Harness A properly fitted sport-specific or pulling harness, not a collar or restrictive harness, that allows full range of motion without hindering breathing or stride. Safety requirement: Standard leashes and collars are not permitted in the canicross event. If you’re unsure whether your gear is suitable, contact us before race day or stop by the gear check area. Race organizers reserve the right to move participants to the fun walk/run if appropriate canicross gear is not being used. Dog-friendly option: We also have a dog-friendly heat that does not require canicross equipment. Your dog may wear any gear that does not cause choking or neck strain. Use the tools you know work well for your dog and keep them safe. 2026 Sponsors, Vendors & Donors Thank You to Our Supporters Click a logo to visit their website. Giveaway Partners Featured Partners MOJO Dog Co Fleet Feet Kenosha Running Company Official Event Photographer North Coast Canine Content North American Canicross Howling Dog Alaska Berryman Equipment Bancare Come run, walk, or chase tail, all for a great cause.