The Starved Rock Country Marathon and Half Marathon, 5K and now 10K have become the “must do” events of the running community in central Illinois. These races blend challenging courses with awe-inspiring scenery, making them an annual favorite in the running community. The Starved Rock Country Marathon kicks off in …
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The Starved Rock Country Marathon and Half Marathon, 5K and now 10K have become the “must do” events of the running community in central Illinois. These races blend challenging courses with awe-inspiring scenery, making them an annual favorite in the running community.
The Starved Rock Country Marathon kicks off in the heart of downtown Ottawa, a vibrant and historic riverside community. From the starting line, runners embark on a scenic journey along the Illinois River, winding through lush landscapes and tranquil views. The course leads participants through the breathtaking trails of Starved Rock State Park, where towering sandstone bluffs, challenging elevation changes, and natural rock formations create a uniquely inspiring backdrop. This picturesque route combines small-town charm with the untamed beauty of nature, making it a truly unforgettable race experience.
The Marathon course will again encompass the scenery of the Illinois River, the neighborhoods of Ottawa, and the rolling landscapes in and around Starved Rock State Park. Runners will be inspired by the scenery of rolling country hills and natural rock formations tucked into heavily wooded areas created by the Illinois River thousands of years ago.
Runners participating in the Half Marathon, which starts in the heart of Starved Rock State Park, will experience the neighborhoods of Ottawa in addition to wooded scenery and sites along the Illinois River. The Half Marathon is a flat, fast course making for a nice run through country and city alike. Each runner will receive a participant shirt and finishers receive a race specific medal which will be the fifth in the series.
The Run Starved Rock 5K will return as well. This event will start and end at the same lines as the marathon, and follow part of the marathon route before heading back to Ottawa for a finish along the river. The event is a great addition for those who want to participate in the events of the day while their loved one or friend is running another race. A portion of this event will benefit local charities and events promoting running and physical activity.
The new 10K will also be an out-and-back course along even more scenic portion of Rt 71 literally on the banks of the Illinois River.
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Small Race with a quality course
This is a good point-to-point half with good support along the course. Start is at the Starved Rock park so begins with a couple hills but then flattens out and … MORE
This is a good point-to-point half with good support along the course. Start is at the Starved Rock park so begins with a couple hills but then flattens out and the run along the river is comfortable. The race has a smaller field, but is well supported.