The second annual Beanie Baby 5K race, held June 29 in Ty Warner Park, was more than a hit for runners and walkers crossing the finish line.

Organizers of the race presented the chiefs of the Westmont police and fire departments a check for $5,000 Monday night, to be split evenly between the departments.

The fire department already has used the money to purchase special bicycles for a paramedic patrol.

“We had a pilot program with the bicycle paramedics last year, and they were such a success we decided to go with it,” said Fire Chief Frank Trout. “They’re a fast, safe way to transport medics in congested areas.”

The bikes, which will be used at events such as the Taste of Westmont and the Fourth of July festival, carry advanced life support equipment including medicines, syringes, airway equipment and even defibrillators, Trout said.

“Everyone sees them, and they like them. It’s a good public relations tool,” Trout said.

The police department was the sole beneficiary of the race last year and used the money to purchase ballistic safety vests for officers.

This year, Police Chief Jim Ramey said the department will use the money to purchase “cutting edge” rechargeable flashlights, with the hope of assigning one to each patrol officer.

“They’re lighter, smaller and produce more illumination than heavy aluminum flashlights,” Ramey said.

Beanie Baby 5K run co-organizer Gregg Pill said this year’s race was a “great success.” In its sophomore year, it more than doubled in size from 162 participants to 403.

The race was sponsored by local businesses the Oak Brook Racquet and Fitness Club, the McCrone Group, and Ty Warner, which produces Beanie Babies stuffed animals, the race’s namesake.

“We got great reviews on the course and lots of positive comment, and we’re expecting an even bigger race next year,” Pill said.