About the North Shore Classic
The North Shore Classic, featuring a Half Marathon and 5K, is an annual running event held in Highland Park, Illinois. Originally established in 1981, the race was known as the North Shore Classic for over 41 years.
The race was renamed to Highland Park Strong in 2022 to honor the community in the aftermath of the Highland Park tragedy. By returning to the North Shore Classic, we are renewing our commitment to supporting runners from across the region, uniting neighboring communities in a shared spirit of resilience and connection.
We have redesigned a new logo that encompasses the strength of our community, incorporating a strong local landmark to tie us together, and featuring the signature seven leaves in remembrance of the victims. This symbol will serve as a reminder of the lasting impact on our hearts and our commitment to moving forward while honoring those we have lost.
Honoring Highland Park
In 2023, the race was reimagined as the Highland Park Strong in response to the 2022 July 4th shooting. More than 2,500 runners and community partners worked diligently to raise over $100,000 for the Highland Park Community Foundationduring the 2023 Highland Park Run. This contributed to the $5.8 million total dollars that were donated by the foundation to individuals affected by the July 4th tragedy in Highland Park.
As the community continues to heal and grow together, so will this race. After receiving feedback from the victims’ services experts at the Department of Justice Office of Victims of Crime and the City of Highland Park, the decision was made to move away from the use of Strong in the race name.
To better align their name to highlight the focus of their efforts, the City is replacing its use of Highland Park Strong with Together Highland Park Unidos to identify resources, services, and programming available to support individuals impacted by the Highland Park shooting.
Be Part of the North Shore Classic!
Ready to make a difference and be part of a tradition of community strength and resilience? Join us at the North Shore Classic in Chicagoland on June 6th, 2027, where runners from all over come together in support of Highland Park.
Whether you’re participating in the Half Marathon and 5K, your involvement helps honor the community, continue the healing journey, and support local charities making a lasting impact. Register today and run for a cause that matters!