Sparkle to the Bridge 5K
Always double-check with the organizer's website! This page may contain affiliate links.
Event overview
The Sparkle to the Bridge event takes place on Sunday, November 2, 2025, at Cox Bridge Access in Patoka, Illinois. The event offers the following distances:
- 5K (in-person)
- Virtual 5K - St. Louis
The in-person 5K follows a route through rural Pope Township with views of Carlyle Lake and the Kaskaskia River. The course starts at the boat dock and finishes at Cox's River Bridge.
Logistics and benefits
Participants are transported from the River Bridge to the boat dock by a hayride before the in-person start. Post-race activities at the finish include music, donuts, refreshments, an awards ceremony, and photo opportunities with Heart Lover the unicorn. A community worship service and a chili lunch fundraiser take place in town at Patoka Christian Church after the event.
Packet pickup is available on Friday, October 31, Saturday, November 1, or on race day. All participants receive medals; additional awards are given to top finishers in various age categories. T-shirts are provided to those who register by October 19. Entry fee for each event is $30. All proceeds support Nora's Sparkle of Love Project, which funds pediatric brain tumor research and supports children and families affected by DIPG and other childhood cancers. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.