BEAT the Bridge 5K Challenge!
Scholarship Run/Walk/Virtual
A movement is gaining momentum—and it's spreading fast!
Get ready for the 3rd Annual 1911 Initiative 5K Scholarship Run/Walk, where your steps transform lives and open doors for college-bound students. Partnering with the Village of Matteson, this event celebrates purpose, progress, and community spirit.
This year, we're amplifying the excitement with our electrifying "Beat The Bridge" 5K Challenge"—centered around the iconic Matteson bridge at mile 3. What emerged as a challenging incline last year became the race's defining moment. It tested runners' resilience, sparked crowd support, and created an opportunity for personal triumph. Whether you sprint, jog, or walk with determination—your mission is clear: conquer the bridge on your own terms.
We're thrilled to announce over 150 participants already registered, with an ambitious target of 1000 runners and walkers by 2027!
Here's what makes this special—this isn't driven by corporate funding. The 1911 Initiative is a community-powered movement, energized by passionate individuals like YOU. Each registration, every stride, and every moment of shared enthusiasm directly funds scholarships and internships, empowering young people to create brighter futures.
Whether you are a Cyclist, skateboarder, a mom with a stroller, a walker, jogger or serious runner, there is a place for you.
Join us, embrace the challenge, and become part of something extraordinary.
Are YOU Ready to Beat The Bridge?
Events
5k Run/Walk
Event Details
📅 Date: Saturday, June 19, 2027 | Village of Matteson, IL
⏰ Race Start: 8:00 AM (Arrive early to park, warm up, collect your race bib and shirt, and use the restroom.)
📍 Location: 20642 Matteson Ave, IL 60443
Location: Matteson Community Center
Address: 20642 Matteson Ave, Matteson, IL 60443
Room: Eagles Nest (back of the Community Center)
🏃🏿 Race Day Packet Pickup: 6:30-7:45 am
Race starts at 8:00 am
Awards
Open Division
Top 3 Males and Top 3 Females and top 3 in the following age groups: include 7 & under, 8-10, 11-14, 15-17, 18-24, 25-29, 30-34, 35-39, 40-44, 45-49, 50-54, 55-59, 60-64, 65-69,70-74-75-79, 80+
Runners' Shirt and Finisher Medal
Participant Count
Participants
What to Expect
Chip-timed event for runners and walkers of all skill levels. A clock at the finish line will display your time.
Race Shirts & Medals: Register by May 15, 2027 to ensure you receive your event shirt and medal. Registration after May 15, 2027 cannot guarantee a race shirt or packet.
🏆 Awards: Top 3 males and top 3 females receive awards. All finishers get a medal (limited to first 200 registrants).
🏅 Age Groups & Finisher Medals: Awarded to top finishers in each age group.
🍴 Food for Purchase: Local vendors
🛍️ Vendors: Booths featuring local businesses and sponsors.
👕 Special Guest: After Race Celebration on the VILLAGE SOCCER FIELD! Enjoy a FREE HOUSE MUSIC FEST!
💚 Why Run? How You Help & What Your Dollar Does
When you fundraise, 100% of your donations go directly to:
- Helps raise funds for college scholarships and internships
- Celebrates unity, health, and purpose in our community
- Shows young people what support and opportunity really look like
Contact Form
If you have any questions about this race, click the button below.
Event Location
Village of Matteson
20642 Matteson Ave
Matteson, IL 60443 US
View Location on Map
