March Madness Half Marathon
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Event Overview
The March Madness Half Marathon is a certified USATF course (IL-23027-NM). The event takes place in Cary, Illinois, starting in front of Cary-Grove High School.
Course and Logistics
The course has a time limit of three hours and will close at 11:35 AM. Runners not reaching the 8-mile mark by 10:35 AM (a 15-minute per mile pace) will be directed to an early finish. Roads are open to traffic. Strollers, scooters, bicycles, roller blades, skates, and dogs are not allowed on the course. Headphones are not recommended. The event uses a color-coded Event Alert System (EAS) to communicate weather conditions at the start, aid stations, and finish line.
Amenities and Services
All pre-registered runners receive a specially designed technical running shirt. Finisher medals are awarded to all who complete the course on race day. Aid stations provide water and a performance drink at approximately 2.5-mile intervals and at the finish line. Washrooms are available on the course at multiple mile markers and at a conservation area. The race features a Chronomix timed finish line. A Pace Team is available for runners targeting specific finish times from 1:35 to 2:20.
Registration and Packet Pickup
Registration opens on September 1st and closes at 8:00 AM on race day or when capacity is reached. Packet pickup is available the day before the race at The Running Depot in Crystal Lake and on race day morning at the Cary-Grove High School gym. A photo ID is required for pickup.
Parking and Facilities
Parking is available at the Cary-Grove High School lot, with additional parking at Cary Grove park, a nearby overflow lot, and limited street parking. Indoor access to the high school is available. Consumption of alcoholic beverages on school or park grounds is prohibited.
Awards and Results
Awards are given to overall winners and to 2nd through 10th place male and female finishers. Age group awards are given three deep across multiple divisions. Disputed results are resolved by the race director on race day, and their decision is final. A scholarship fund benefits graduating seniors from McHenry County high schools. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
