Photo gallery: Bastille Day run, walk and block party | July 14

They came. They saw. They ran. They noshed on Swirlz cupcakes—yep, every participant got one—and listened to live entertainment. There wasn’t a storming of the Bastille last night, but there was a celebration of all things French at the annual Bastille Day 5K & 8K Run, Walk and Block Party.

On a night that could easily be deemed perfect for summer running, Lincoln Park was the spot to be seen and be running on the French national holiday. The evening started with the run/walk, a perfect little jolt to the old metabolism, and ended with a free block party at the Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum to refuel that running tummy and entertain ‘til dark—all to benefit the Mercy Home for Boys & Girls.

Apparently the fast feet were out last night too. In the 5K, Pat Quinn took first with a blistering 5-minute per mile pace, followed by Archie Bareikis and Mark Wehrman. In the 8K, Andrew Knapik, Greg Verdo and Ryan Kuphall rounded out the top three. For the ladies, it was the French leading the field: Elizabeth French crossed first, only two minutes behind Quinn, followed by Allison Woodward and Maria Vega. In the 8K, it was a photo finish for Kate Deprosperis and Krysta Metz who finished in 30:47, followed by Jennie Funk. Check out more results here. 

By the looks on the runners’ faces (check out the slideshow) and public display of the race’s T-shirt, maybe they were running for France’s independence after all. Vive la France, oui?