March Madness Half Marathon
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Event
The Hillstriders March Madness Half Marathon takes place on March 15, 2026, in Cary, Illinois. The event is based at Cary-Grove High School, 2208 Three Oaks Road, and the pre- and post-race activities will be held indoors in the CGHS gym. The race distance is half marathon. The course is USATF certified (IL-23027-NM). Registration includes a race premium running shirt (limited sizing) and a custom finisher medal for all finishers.
Course and logistics
Water and Gatorade are provided at 2.5-mile intervals and at the finish. Portable washrooms are located on course at miles 3, 5, and 9. A finish line clock will be visible to runners. Strollers, bikes, roller blades, skateboards, and dogs are not allowed on the course. All participants must sign a waiver, wear a race number, and show photo ID to receive a race number and timing tag. Runners must be able to complete the race in 3.5 hours or less. Packet pickup is available the day before at Running Depot in Crystal Lake and on race morning in the Cary-Grove High School gym. VIP entries offer dedicated parking, complimentary coffee, and private restrooms; VIP fees support the event scholarship program. A portion of race fees and donations fund the Hillstriders Running Club Distance Scholarship program; the club awarded $15,000 in scholarships in 2025. Team awards are given for fastest overall time and most participation, with awards picked up on the day of the event. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.