Weather Policy
During Team Ortho events there is always the potential for extreme or severe weather conditions (for example: lightning, tornado, high winds, extreme hot or cold temperatures, blizzard, etc...). Team Ortho Foundation will do as much as we can to make the experience as safe as possible. But if there is severe weather, the race may be delayed as race officials consult public safety officers. If there is more than a reasonable delay, or if conditions persist, race officials reserve the right to shorten or cancel the race. Entry fees are non-refundable. Please check the website and your email before the race for any changes or cancellations. If you are already at the event, listen to the announcer about any weather changes that may occur.
Aid Stations
Aid Stations:
Water Stations will be at: Miles 4, 5.5, 7, and 9 on the 15 Mile course.
Medical Stations will be at Mile 4 on the 10K Course.
Port-a-Potties:
There will be portable restrooms at every water station and at the start/finish area.
Pace Team
The Polar Dash 15 Mile will have pacers helping you reach your goal finish time!
Here are the per-mile paces offered by the pace team:
7:00/mile
7:30/mile
8:00/mile
8:30/mile
9:00/mile
10:00/mile
11:00/mile
12:00/mile
You will be able to find your pacer when you line up in the start corral according to your minute-per-mile pace.
Bag Check
A bag check area will be available in the Athlete Village at Arvey Field. You must have your race bib to be able to check your bag. Your belongings will be secure throughout the run. Team Ortho Foundation, however, is not responsible for lost/stolen items, so please do not bring any valuables. Be sure to allow enough time to get to the Start Line.
Parking & Transportation
Parking:
Parking Location: Soldier Field's North Garage
Garage opens at 6am on race day
Rates:Cash or credit cards will be accepted.
- Pre-paid - $13 plus a $3 service fee
- Day of Event Rate - $22 same day event
The Soldier Field North Parking Garage (near the Field Museum) will open on race day at 6:00 a.m. Click here for directions to the parking garage. You can reserve a parking space and pre-pay for your parking at the $13 discounted rate (pre-paid parking is $13 plus an additional $3 service fee). Pre-paid parking allows access to the garage any time during the day for up to 24 hours. $22 same day non-reserved parking spaces are also available on a first-come, first-serve basis and good for up to 12 hours. Cash or credit card payment will be accepted at the garage. Click here to reserve your parking space
Public Transportation
Public transportation to the event is highly recommended.
Red & Green & Orange Lines: Exit at Roosevelt stop at the corner of Roosevelt and State; walk East to Columbus, then walk north to the event site at the northeast corner of Columbus and Roosevelt.
Brown Line: Exit at Library/State/Van Buren at the corner of Van Buren and State; walk 3 blocks South to Balbo walk East to Columbus, then walk South to the event site at the northeast corner of Columbus and Roosevelt.
Driving Directions
From 90/94: Take 290W/Eisenhower Expy/Congress Exit 51H; turn Right at Michigan Ave and Left onto E Balbo Dr. Limited on-street parking is available on Columbus Dr.
Post-Race Goodies
There's nothing like a great reward after finishing a long, wintry run. We have treat for you once you cross the finish line!
After you finish the Polar Dash 15 Mile, 10K or 5K, we will have your stained glass finisher's medal waiting for you. Plus you will get your food bag, as well as water and the piece de resistance --TOASTY HOT CHOCOLATE!
Results
Race results will be posted here after the race. Results will not be posted at the race site.
Click here to see your results for the 2014 Polar Dash
Click here to see your results for the 2013 Polar Dash
Awards
Awards will be mailed out 4-6 weeks following the race.
- Awards will be given to the Top 3 Overall Male and Female Finishers (6 awards Total).
Polar Dash Weather Policy
Safety of our participants and extreme weather
The Polar Dash is a COLD race with arctic temperatures and snow. Even though we will be providing Hot Cocoa and Hot Shelters the conditions on the course can be dangerous if you don’t dress appropriately. As race organizers we ask you to stay informed of the weather conditions and wear proper clothing to stay warm. In the case of extreme weather such as unsafe temperatures or high volumes of snow the Polar Dash organizing committee reserves the right to shorten or cancel the race. Entry fees are non-refundable. Please check the website and your email before the race for changes or cancellations.
