For many Chicago families, the holidays seem to race by. For parents Randi and Graham Schooley, this saying takes on a more literal meaning. The Schooleys are the proud owners of the Santa Hustle Race Series, a fun and festive race series that offers a 10K, 5K and kids’ dash for families across the country.
Taking place on Dec. 6 at Soldier Field, Santa Hustle Chicago is celebrating its 17th season. Combining a passion for movement and quality time with loved ones, Randi and Graham have organized the perfect outing for active families.
Randi shared with us their journey of bringing these festive races to the Chicago community and how raising her own family has played a role in its growth.
Running headfirst into the holiday season
With a longtime love for both the holidays and the running community, Randi knew that combining the two would produce something truly special. Since its beginning nearly 17 years ago, Santa Hustle Chicago has become a cherished holiday tradition for many families.
This race series goes beyond a simple test of endurance; it’s a shared experience that has become a key part of many Chicagoans’ holiday celebrations. Intentionally designed for all audiences, the event caters to children who want to see Santa, all the way to dedicated runners eager to support a good cause.
All participants receive a medal upon completion, and age-group awards are presented at the conclusion of the event.
Hustling at home and on the track
Randi and Graham shared that one of their favorite holiday memories was running a turkey trot with their children. The joy from that event is what inspired them to host Santa Hustle, where community, movement and good old-fashioned fun lie at the core of the experience.
“Families holding hands, friends cheering each other on, and kids proudly wearing their medals — it’s a beautiful reminder of why we do this. That shared joy and sense of accomplishment perfectly capture the heart of the Santa Hustle,” shared Randi.
While each of the three races offers a different reason to smile, Randi admits that she loves seeing children right before the kids’ race begins, full of energy and contagious excitement.
Randi and Graham work hard to maintain this same enthusiasm at home while trying to balance work with raising seven children and spending time with their grandchild.
While it can be a juggling act, believing in what they’re building together is what keeps them grounded and connected. Working as a team, they’ve learned to trust in each other’s common vision and take pride in showing their children that passion and perseverance can produce something special for years to come.
Running with a purpose
For over a decade, Santa Hustle has partnered with Cal’s Angels, a Chicago-based organization supporting pediatric cancer treatment and research. Cal’s Angels has provided over $1 million to local hospitals and given over 125,000 toys to children through its Grant a Wish program.
While this foundation is vital to the community, it holds an even deeper meaning for the Schooleys.
Their nephew is currently battling cancer, and they are learning firsthand the support, faith and strength required to face that fight.
Operating through the belief that events like Santa Hustle can inspire people to support one another, they hope to encourage a spirit of generosity that surpasses the holiday season.
“It’s not just about running or racing; it’s about giving, connecting and spreading love in ways that truly matter. That mission has always been at the heart of what we do,” said Randi.
What Chicago families can expect
Complete with classic holiday tunes, costumes and the ultimate Santa Snack bar waiting just across the finish line, families are guaranteed to have a jolly good time. Adult participants are given a festive long-sleeve and beanie to sport while children receive a long-sleeve shirt, Santa hat, beard and race bib.
Randi admits that there’s nothing quite like seeing a sea of red and green Santa hats holding hands and cheering one another across the finish line.
“My hope is that everyone leaves feeling joyful, connected and inspired to keep that holiday spirit alive — by giving back, spending time with loved ones, and spreading kindness wherever they go,” said Randi.
From start to finish, Santa Hustle embodies pure holiday magic. For more information, visit SantaHustle.com/Chicago.
