Sunday, May 3, 2026
@ 8am
We’re incredibly grateful to everyone who joined us for last year’s Bob Blazier Run for the Arts!
Your continued support has played a vital role in Raue Center’s recovery, and this year’s event showed that our momentum is growing. 💙
👉 Join us again this year…or for the first time! More runners. More dollars. More community spirit.
Lace ’em up for the Arts!
Early in 2025, Crystal Lake lost a true champion. Bob Blazier, known colloquially as “Mr. Crystal Lake,” passed away on January 9th at the age of 98. A man of true character and integrity, Bob’s life served as a model of good citizenship and community service. Raue Center is honored to hold the race that bears his name and do our part to keep the spirit of his legacy alive.
Through the “Blazier Run” we aim to build community, just like Bob. For over six decades he exemplified what it means to put service above self, working tirelessly to improve the educational, healthcare, and business sectors of Crystal Lake.
Twenty-nine years ago, a 5K charity event was born to honor Bob Blazier’s unparalleled community accomplishments. At the time, Bob was working tirelessly with a handful of community organizers to reinvigorate downtown Crystal Lake by renovating, reconstructing, and raising the curtain on a new performing arts center. Recognizing the important future role that Raue Center would play for the community, Bob asked that this new 5K race benefit the historic non-profit theater.
Register now and join us for the 28th annual Bob Blazier Run For The Arts. Help keep Bob’s name and legacy thriving in 2025 and beyond. Lace up your shoes and run, walk, or simply show up to make your mark on our community and show that the arts truly matter.
