Half Day at the Lake
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Half Day at the Lake
The Half Day at the Lake is a timed endurance event held in Evanston, Illinois. The race takes place on a 2-mile loop along a shared paved path that follows the lakefront and passes through the Northwestern University campus. Participants can choose between two primary time formats:
- 12 hour race
- 6 hour race
The course is primarily paved, though runners have the option to run on the grass alongside most of the path. The route is shared with the public, but the event is coordinated with the city and university to ensure no other organized activities are scheduled on the path. The start and finish area is located at Centennial Park, which is situated near the CTA Purple Line and Metra UP-North Line Davis Street Stations.
Two aid stations are available along the loop. The main station at the start and finish area provides water, Gatorade, hot noodles, broth, and various snacks. A secondary station on the north loop offers water and snacks. Participants are permitted to set up personal support areas, including chairs, coolers, and small canopies (up to 10x10), near the start/finish line.
The event is managed by an RRCA Certified Race Director. Amenities include access to public restrooms and water fountains along the route. Free parking is available at the NU Lakeside Parking Structure and on nearby residential streets like Hinman and Judson. Finishers receive a hand-crafted award and non-alcoholic hop water. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
