'Jack and Jill' Prize For the Fastest Up Cricket Hill

CHICAGO, IL - Jack and Jill went up the hill to fetch a pail of water.

One of the most well-known nursery rhymes will come to life on Chicago’s North Side come March. But instead of just one Jack and Jill, it will be hundreds. And they won’t be walking, they’ll be running.

On March 19, the Lakefront 10 Miler race will kickoff the Chicago Area Runners Association’s Runners Choice Circuit Series, a competitive series of races where CARA members can compete in a series of races for points and year-end awards in several categories.

The Lakefront 10 Miler course is a scenic one that winds through a handful of neighborhoods on the North Side and of course, the beautiful lakefront. But it includes a particularly challenging part.

Cricket Hill.

Nestled in between Montrose and Wilson avenues in Lincoln Park, Cricket Hill is so steep that the Jack (man) and Jill (woman) who conquer it the fastest will be recognized with their own award this year. Final race times will have no bearing on the “Fastest Jack and Jill Up the Hill” award.

Following the tale of the nursery rhyme, the winners will receive a prize pail at the end of the race.

“Running is a universal sport and the Live Grit Lakefront 10 Miler and 5K is no different.” Greg Hipp, Manager of Road Race Services and Event Planning at CARA said. “At this year’s event we will have something to motivate every runner to be their best.”

That includes a 5K race which was added for the first time this year to encourage newer runners to take part in the fun. All participants will receive a reflective long-sleeve half zip pullover and be invited to a post-race celebration with food, drinks and music.

Live Grit is a sponsor.

“We are especially looking forward to the addition of the 5K, some fun activations, and training powered by Grit Endurance.” said Gillian Fealy, owner of Live Grit. “These additions will make this race a not-to-miss for new and experienced runners alike.”