For many, Memorial Day Weekend marks the unofficial beginning of summer and is usually filled with barbecues and swimming pool openings. Memorial Day also offers Americans a chance to say thank you to the men and women who have served their country. One of the best places to do that is at Soldier Field, where veterans from wars spanning the decades will participate in a pre-race ceremony at the Fleet Feet Sports Soldier Field 10 mile presented by Nike (1410 South Museum Campus Drive).

On Saturday, May 26, a commemorative welcoming ceremony will take place honoring a soldier from every conflict dating back to World War II. Soldiers will be recognized on stage and receive an American flag that has flown over Soldier Field. The stadium is the largest war memorial in the Midwest and built in 1924.

With over 5,000 runners and thousands of spectators, the race has become a Memorial Day weekend tradition in Chicago. Runners will finish a beautiful run along Lake Michigan with a spectacular finish on the 50-yard line at Soldier Field. Afterward, runners and spectators will enjoy the Dominick's Ten Mile Tailgate in the south concourse near the doughboy statue.

The race is in its fourth year and growing in popularity. "The 10 mile race sold out in record time," says Dave Zimmer, owner of Fleet Feet Sports. "Everyone wants the chance to run across Soldier Field, making this a one-of-a-kind event."

Although the race is sold out, registration remains open for the 2-Mile Fitness Walk (which takes place on the grounds surrounding Soldier Field). Registration for the walk costs $15 prior to May 26 and $20 on race day.

The race also provides an opportunity for children to show off their best end zone dance at a 100-yard dash for kids ages 5-12 who will run the length of Soldier Field.

For the second year, the 10-mile race is the USATF Illinois Championship race. The prize purse for the race-which features five 2008 Olympic Trial qualifiers-is $2,000. In addition, awards will be given to the top three overall men and women and top three male and female age group winners (in five-year increments).

The Veteran's Assistance Commission of Cook County and the FitMatters program at LaRabida Children's Hospital are the race beneficiaries.

For more information visit www.SoldierField10.com or call Fleet Feet Sports at (773) 305-3338.

Photos by Jonathan Cain