El Trote De Las Calacas

Race Overview: A race coming up on 10/18/2025 in Elgin, IL. Get all the nerdy details below or follow the sign up links to secure your spot today!
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Race data last checked: 2025-11-26

Race Overview:

The Gail Borden Public Library District Foundation and the U-46 Educational Foundation have partnered to create an extraordinary race and fall season for this community. On Saturday, October 18,  El Trote De Las Calacas (the Skeleton Trot), a USTF certified 5K race (and walk) steps off amid music and fanfare at 9 am on a course that begins at the Gail Borden Public Library at 270 N. Grove, Elgin, Illinois. 

FAQ

Group/Team Registration

  • Multi-person registration is available for 4 people or more. A discount will be applied. Shirts are an additional purchase.

What is El Trote De Las Calacas/The Skeleton Trot?

  • El Trote De Las Calacas/The Skeleton Trot is a USATF-certified 5K race (and walk) held Saturday, October 18. It will step off at 9 am on a course that begins at the Gail Borden Public Library at 270 N. Grove Ave., Elgin, and winds through Elgin’s historic northeast neighborhood and scenic bike path along the Fox River.
  • The Skeleton Trot will showcase community diversity while raising funds to support thousands of residents served by both School District U-46 and the Gail Borden Public Library District, the partners for the event. Both are registered 501(c)(3) organizations.

Can anyone participate?

  • Yes! The race is open to participants of all ages, ability levels and backgrounds.

Volunteers

  • Volunteers are needed and welcome to assist with registration, packet pickup, refreshments, course marshals, and more. If you are interested, please visit this page to sign up. 

How do I register and can I register in person?

  • We require all participants to register online here. 

What do I get by registering?

  • Participants will receive a goodie bag with a specially designed shirt and a unique bib number. On race day, you will receive additional items such as a medal, other free cool stuff. (Items subject to change.)

T-Shirt Information

  • Individual Registration: Includes one event t-shirt with the registration fee.
  • Multi-Person Registration (4 or more): T-shirts are not included in the registration fee. Participants may purchase a t-shirt for an additional $22 per person.
  • How can I add a T-shirt to my Multi-Person registration?
    • If you registered as part of a Multi-Person Registration group and would like to purchase an El Trote de las Calacas T-shirt, visit the race website home page. Click the profile icon in the upper-right corner, then select Profile → Manage Registration → Add-ons. From there, you can purchase additional T-shirts.

When can I pick up my bib and t-shirt?

  • Packet pick-up tables will be in the Lobby at the Main Library (270 N. Grove Ave, Elgin IL) on these dates:
    • Friday, October 10 (10 am – 3 pm)
    • Saturday, October 11 (10 am – 3 pm)
    • Wednesday, October 15 (3 pm to 8 pm)

Is the race timed?

  • Participants will get a timed bib. The results will be automatically recorded when crossing the finish line.

Is there a deadline to register for El Trote? Can I register for the event on race day?

  • The last day for registration has been extended to Monday, October 6 at 11:59 pm. We will not allow registrations after this date and there will not be same-day registration.

Does every participant need to provide an email address?

  • Every person 18 years of age and up is required to provide his/her individual email address. Each participant must sign a waiver form. Minors under 18 years need an adult to register for them and sign a waiver form on their behalf.

Does every participant need to register?

  • Yes, all participants will need to have an official registration to be on the course.

Is everyone required to sign a waiver form?

  • Yes. All participants are required to sign and submit the Agreement and Liability Waiver including walkers, joggers, runners, skippers, bikers, and wheelchair participants.

Are strollers allowed during El Trote?

  • Yes, participants are allowed to walk/run with children in strollers.

Are pets allowed on the race course?

  • Unfortunately, no pets will be allowed. Service dogs are permitted. 

Can I get a refund or reimbursement?

  • Sales are final and there are no refunds.

Who gets an award?

  • The first place male and female finishers will receive an award.
  • The first place in the following age categories will receive an award:
  • Female:
    • Age 9 and under
    • Age 10-14
    • Age 15-19
    • Age 20-29
    • Age 30-39
    • Age 40-49
    • Age 50-59
    • Age 60-69
    • Age 70+
  • Male
    • Age 9 and under
      Age 10-14
      Age 15-19
      Age 20-29
      Age 30-39
      Age 40-49
      Age 50-59
      Age 60-69
      Age 70+
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