Chicago - HFTC 5k
Sun, Oct 4, 2026, 4:00 AM CDT
- Distance
- 5K
- Type
- Run
Finish signup on the organizer site (check fees and dates there).
Race feel
Run for a purpose at the Head for the Cure 5K in Chicago, supporting brain cancer research on a flat, mild course.
- For a Cause
For a CauseJoin the Head for the Cure 5K in Chicago, a meaningful event dedicated to supporting brain cancer research. This 3.1-mile run offers a flat course in a low-altitude setting, typically enjoying mild weather conditions in early October. Participate to contribute to a vital cause while enjoying a straightforward run through the city.
What to expect
- Experience a flat course in a low-altitude setting.
- Enjoy typically mild weather conditions in early October.
- Participate in a run dedicated to a significant cause.
Standout details
- Supports brain cancer research
- Flat course
- Typically mild October weather
Summaries use public event text. Confirm schedule, fees, and rules on the official page before you sign up.
Past race snapshot
What the field usually feels like
A plain-English read from past public results. It is helpful context, not a prediction.
Crowd
Comfortable field
374 5K finishers in 2024. A manageable crowd with enough runners for company on course.
Typical finish
54:55
Think middle-of-the-pack, using chip time when available.
Competitive feel
Speedy front
There is real pace up front, even if the overall field is broad. Front-group read: 23:58.
People mix
Balanced mix
About 52% women and 48% men among finishers who listed gender.
Quick read
For the 5K in 2024, this looks like a comfortable field: 374 finishers are represented here. A middle-of-the-pack finish was around 54:55. The quicker front of the field averaged about 23:58. Use it as a feel check, not a promise about race day.
Where runners came from
Aggregated city counts only. Small groups stay hidden in public views.
Survivor
Travel draw
Award clues
Historic placement clues only. Race-day awards can use different rules.
1 - 9
Top 3 (from posted divisions)
10 - 14
Top 3 (from posted divisions)
15 - 19
Top 3 (from posted divisions)
20 - 24
Top 3 (from posted divisions)
25 - 29
Top 3 (from posted divisions)
Show the year-by-year numbers
| Distance | Year | Finishers | Typical | Average | Front 10% | Fastest M / W |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5K | 2024 | 374 | 54:55 | 50:56 | 23:58 | 18:04 / 23:24 |
Last summary update: May 2, 2026
From the organizer
Head for the Cure 5K - Chicago