March Madness Half Marathon
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Event
The Hillstriders March Madness half marathon is scheduled for March 15, 2026 in Cary, Illinois. The race is organized by the Hillstriders Running Club and is open to registered participants only. Runners must be able to complete the half marathon within 3.5 hours and must sign a waiver to participate. Race numbers and timing tags are required; photo ID is needed to receive them. Coaches, baby-joggers, bikes, dogs, in-line skates and skateboards are not allowed on the course.
Location and logistics
The event base is Cary-Grove High School, 2208 Three Oaks Road, Cary, IL 60013. Pre- and post-race activities will be held indoors in the school gym. Packet pickup is available Saturday, March 14 (10:00 to 16:00) at Running Depot in Crystal Lake and Sunday, March 15 (06:30 to 08:00) at Cary-Grove High School gym.
Course and race services
The course is USATF certified (IL-23027-NM). Water and Gatorade are provided at 2.5-mile intervals and at the finish area. Portable washrooms are located on course at approximately miles 3, 5 and 9. The organizers reserve the right to cancel or modify the race or course for safety reasons; the event will run rain or shine and there is no alternate date.
Registration, VIP and fundraising
Open registration fees vary by date; listed ranges start at $75 and rise to $90. A VIP option is offered, with dedicated parking, complimentary coffee and private restrooms; VIP fees are higher and fund the club’s Distance Scholarship program. A portion of race fees and additional donations support scholarships; in 2025 the club awarded $15,000. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
