Cactus Classic Trail Races
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Cactus Classic Trail Races
The Cactus Classic Trail Races take place on March 7, 2026 at Sand Ridge State Forest near Manito, Illinois. The event begins and ends at the Oak Campground and uses singletrack and multiuse trails through pine forest and sandy soils. The park contains native cactus plants that appear along the route.
Available distances:
- 10K : actual distance approximately 6.4 miles
- Half marathon : actual distance approximately 13.4 miles
- Marathon : two loops of the half marathon course
The trails feature many flat runnable sections and several rolling sections. The loose sandy soil makes some footing similar to running on a beach. Road crossings on the courses are unassisted; caution is advised at those locations. Aid station details include a first station at about 2.1 miles and a split for longer distances shortly after. One aid station at about mile 5 is unmanned and stocked with water and sports drink only; additional staffed stations occur later on the course. Because of the spacing between aid stations, half marathon runners are advised to consider carrying water.
Swag and entries: 10K participants may opt for a commemorative shirt, and half and full marathon participants may opt for a hooded sweatshirt. To be guaranteed a shirt or hoodie, registration must be completed by February 21. Race entries after that date may not include swag and limited items may be available for purchase on race day.
Awards are given by overall and by age group for the 10K and by overall for the half and full distances. Finishers medals are handed out to all half and full marathon finishers. Marathon runners may be prevented from starting a second loop if the first loop exceeds 3.5 hours or at the race director's discretion. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
