SECOND ANNUAL JJK 5K RUN & WALK RETURNS TO WORLDWIDE TECH TRACK DURING NASCAR CUP SERIES WEEKEND
Madison, Illinois (May 1, 2024) – The excitement is palpable as the second annual JJK 5K Run & Walk prepares to take place on May 30 at World Wide Technology Raceway, coinciding with the highly anticipated 2024 NASCAR Cup Series Weekend. This exclusive event pays homage to esteemed hometown hero Jackie Joyner-Kersee, whose dedication to empowering East St. Louis youth has been unwavering since her illustrious Olympic career.
The JJK 5K Run & Walk promises an exhilarating experience for participants and spectators, offering a unique opportunity to celebrate the remarkable achievements of Jackie Joyner-Kersee, welcome back NASCAR to World Wide Technology Raceway and immerse yourself in a packed day of racing high-level experiences.
What’s new this year?
This year’s event features exciting updates, including a “Beat the Heat” start time of 6:30 pm and an all-new racecourse that gives runners and walkers an exclusive view of the track and surrounding activity areas. Participants will have the thrill of racing on the same track as NASCAR drivers, soaking up the vibrant atmosphere of the entire complex.
Additionally, the event serves a dual purpose by supporting the JJK Foundation, which provides life-changing programs to Metro East youth, fostering a better future for generations to come.
Event details and registration
Individual runners, teams, families and friends are invited to register for the JJK 5K Run and 1.25 Mile Walk. Managed by Big River Running Co., the event caters to participants seeking their best self or simply celebrating NASCAR’s return to WWTR, ensuring lasting memories for everyone involved.
Registration includes a commemorative t-shirt, event medal, free parking, two tickets to the Enjoy Illinois 300 NASCAR Cup Race on June 2, free downloadable photos and prizes for top finishers in several categories.
Early registration by May 6th offers preferential pricing. Registrants will be able to collect their race packages on site on May 30th, from 4pm to 6pm.
Join us for a day of celebration
Don’t miss your chance to be part of this unforgettable event, which combines athletics, community support and the excitement of NASCAR. Together, we will honor Jackie Joyner-Kersee’s legacy and create a lasting impact for Metro East youth.
About Jackie Joyner-Kersee and the JJK Foundation
Jackie Joyner-Kersee, hailed as the “Greatest Female Athlete of the 20th Century” by Sports Illustrated, continues to inspire with her six Olympic medals and her enduring athletic legacy. Her commitment to East St. Louis is exemplified through the JJK Foundation and the JJK Center, enriching the lives of local children through educational and recreational opportunities.
About World Wide Technology Raceway
World Wide Technology Raceway (WWTR) is the home of NASCAR, INDYCAR and NHRA racing in the St. Louis Metro East region. Located just five minutes from downtown St. Louis and covering 700 acres, WWTR is the largest on-air entertainment facility free from the region. WWTR facilities include a 1.25-mile superspeedway; 1/4 mile drag strip; 2.0 mile road course; Gateway Kartplex’s state-of-the-art karting facility; and the adjacent Gateway National Golf Links. WWTR and owner and CEO Curtis François have been recognized with numerous awards, including: induction into the St. Louis Sports Hall of Fame in 2023; St. Louis Business Journal’s 2023 Innovation in Philanthropy Award; 2022 Explore St. Hospitality Hero Recognition 2022 Best in Show and Best Event and Festival from the Illinois Governor’s Conference on Tourism; 2021 Comcast Community Champion of the Year; 2021 Jack Buck Award; 2020 NASCAR Drive for Diversity Track Award; 2018 Innovator Award from the St. Louis Convention and Visitors Bureau 2017 Best Facility of the Year Award from the Race Track Business Conference; and the 2017 Spirit of St. Louis Award from St. Louis.
Our Mission: We are committed to making a difference in our community while providing world-class entertainment and memories that last a lifetime.
Visit www.WWTRaceway.com or follow WWTR on social media (@wwtraceway) for additional information.
MEDIA CONTACT: Katie Armstrong | Director of Communications and Brand Development | 940.765.9234 | karmstrong@wwtraceway.com
