March Madness Half Marathon
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About the race
The March Madness *half marathon* is a USATF certified course (IL-23027-NM) that begins in front of Cary-Grove High School at 2208 Three Oaks Road, Cary, IL. The course is described by the organizer as one of the most challenging in the region and is used as a spring marathon training race. All miles are marked. Aid is provided at about 2.5 mile intervals and at the finish with water and a performance drink.
A Chronomix timed finish line is used. Portable washrooms are located in the school parking lot and there are on-course washrooms at miles 3, 4, 5, 7, 9 and 10; brick washrooms at a conservation area will also be open. Roads remain open to traffic, so headphones are not recommended.
Strollers, scooters, bikes, roller blades or skates and dogs are not allowed on the course. The event enforces a three hour course time limit; runners who do not reach the eight mile mark within the required 15 minute per mile pace may be turned early. The organizer reserves the right to end the race early for safety reasons. No refunds or deferrals are offered. Pre-registered runners receive a specially designed tech running shirt with artwork from the Art Scholarship winner of 2025 and finishers receive medals.
A scholarship fund awards money to three or more graduating seniors from McHenry County high schools; 25 VIP entries benefit that fund. Packet pickup is available the day before at The Running Depot in Crystal Lake and on race morning at the Cary-Grove High School gym. Parking is provided at the school with overflow locations and some street parking; parking at the nearby church is prohibited. Awards include overall placements and 2nd through 10th top male and female finishers, with age group awards three deep. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
