Richards High School physical education teacher Bob Peck does nothing half-way. 

While training for triathlons, he chose the world’s toughest – the Ironman hosted each August in Louisville (considered the hardest due to the hottest average temperature among such events.) 

And after years of organizing students, staff and alumni to run together in a 5K in another town, Peck chose to work with the Village of Oak Lawn to plan a race at Richards. 

Following months of preparation, Richards with host its first 5K run and walk, Running with the Bulldogs, on Sunday, September 23.  While registration will continue through race day, those signing up before September 10 will receive a T-shirt.

All proceeds from the event will benefit the Pediatric Oncology Treasure Chest Foundation at Advocate Christ Medical Center.

Registration has started.  Anyone interested can see the race course, register, and learn all other details at  www.runwiththedogs.com.  Organizing the event proved a challenge.

“There was a tremendous amount of work involved dating back to last year when asking for approval from the village.  We also needed permission from the police to monitor the course, sponsors, web design, online signup, volunteers, food and water, computerized chip timing, t-shirts, trophies, and so much more,” said Peck.

The last several years, Peck organized a group of more than 150 Richards students, staff and alumni to make the trip to Orland Hills for the annual Turkey Trot.  With such a large base, Peck figured he could keep everyone close to home and plan a race at Richards.

“I wanted to create an event that is not just for the students but for the community that surrounds our school.  This event can show so many people that you don’t have to run a marathon to be considered a runner,” Peck said. 

Fine details will make the event appeal to seasoned and new runners and walkers alike.

“With chip timing and a beautiful course we are trying to bring a big race atmosphere to a small race venue and at the same time inviting all ages and types of runners and walkers to continue or start a new healthy lifestyle,” Peck said.

Those who register also will support the Treasure Chest Foundation at Advocate.

“It’s a charity unlike any I’ve seen.  They donate toys to the boys and girls after they have endured a painful procedure to help fight their battles with cancer,” Peck said. 

The opportunity to help children in the midst of the fight of their lives appealed to Peck.

“With the incentive of the Treasure Chest Foundation the children have a light at the end of the tunnel after a long day of chemotherapy or other treatments.  The parents of these children are also eternally grateful for the kind gestures that this great charity does,” Peck said.