Young runners show off speed in Naperville

Elementary-aged runners who have practiced since the school year started with clubs at their schools in Naperville got to show off their sprints during the annual Crosstown Classic race Tuesday afternoon.

The race took place just days after Naperville Central and North high schools faced off in one of their annual crosstown football games, meaning the competitive spirit was in high gear, even among those in kindergarten through fifth grade.

Students ran in races of 400 meters, 800 meters or a mile, each divided into heats based on age and gender. Many events meant many winners, and runners can always score a personal win just by beating a previous best time.

Mill Street Elementary traditionally hosts the race, inviting students in running clubs from each of the district's 13 other elementaries to come along for the fun.