HULL OF A RACE MARKS 20 YEARS OF FIGHTING PARKINSON’S DISEASE

HULL, Ill. — The tiny Pike County community of Hull welcomed hundreds of runners, walkers, volunteers and supporters Saturday morning for the 20th annual Hull of a Race, continuing a tradition that has now generated more than $200,000 for the fight against Parkinson’s disease.

This year’s event drew a record 288 runners and walkers, a significant increase from the 104 participants who took part when the event began two decades ago.

The August 15 event included competitive 5K and 10K races, a timed 5K fun walk open to wheelchair users and participants with baby strollers, and a quarter-mile run for children. The certified race courses began and ended near Hull’s downtown park and carried participants through the village and the surrounding Pike County countryside.

While the morning brings plenty of competition, organizers say the real purpose of Hull of a Race has always been much larger than finishing times and trophies.

Proceeds support the American Parkinson Disease Association and its work supporting people affected by Parkinson’s disease and advancing research. Since the Hull event began in 2006, organizers have generated approximately $203,500 for the cause.

Last year alone, Hull of a Race donated a record $26,000, while drawing 241 registered participants. Organizers entered this year’s 20th anniversary hoping to build on that record-setting year. A final fundraising total from Saturday’s event has not yet been announced.

The race also makes a special effort to recognize people living with Parkinson’s disease. Participants can wear memorial and honor badges carrying the names of individuals who have battled the disease, while organizers provide special parking, shaded seating and other accommodations for what they call their “Parkinson’s Heroes.” Organizers had expected as many as 18 people living with Parkinson’s to attend this year’s event.

Saturday’s turnout is particularly notable for Hull, a small western Illinois community where the annual race temporarily swells the population as participants and their families arrive from throughout the region.

What began as a local race has developed over two decades into one of Pike County’s most enduring charitable traditions — bringing the community together each August while directing thousands of dollars toward research and support for families affected by Parkinson’s disease.

With a record crowd participating in its 20th year and more than $200,000 raised since its beginning, Hull of a Race continues to demonstrate how one small Twin Pikes community can make an impact far beyond its city limits.