July 20, 2008 - The day started out just like any other - except at 8:00 in the morning, over 270 people were getting ready to run a three-mile stretch of Vernon Hills in order to benefit the Intrepid Fallen Heroes Fund instead of reading their Sunday paper.

The overwhelming response to the Inaugural 'Run From The Cops' 5K has instantly catapulted it to our top charity fund-raiser of the year. With over $8,000 raised, our expectations and goals were completely blown away. It’s safe to say this event will be back next year and beyond!

The ages ranged from as young as 6 and as old as 79; all gathered to participate in a race that extended way beyond the 3.05 miles of pavement in the Gregg’s Landing subdivision. As honorary Race Marshall Patrick Madison (an injured Mundelein US Army Specialist who recently returned from Iraq ) was introduced, the crowd cheered loud and proud in support for our Armed Forces overseas.

In a little over 16-minutes (16:27.72 to be exact), Vernon Hills own Kyle Brehm (17-years old) crossed the finish line and became the first ever overall winner of this event. 26-year old Katie Hauser (Ingleside) was the female overall winner with a time of 18 minutes, 26.19 seconds. Congratulations to Kyle & Katie and thanks to everyone else who came out to support the cause, enjoy the day, and help make this event a smashing success!

Of course, a charity event could not exist without sponsors. Many thanks to the below businesses for their donations to this year's event:

Asics
Buffalo Wild Wings
Ernie's C-Store & Car Wash
FCM Travel Solutions
High Sierra
Holiday Inn Express
Lowe's
Massage Envy
Midtown Athletic Club
Mobil Oil
Panera Bread
Pear Tree & Celebration Catering
Rust-Oleum
Schiele Group
Vernon Hills Bank & Trust
Vernon Hills Park District
Vernon Hills Public Works Department
Wal-Mart
Zanies Comedy Club

 Check out below for pictures of the race!