Quad Cities Running Festival Half Marathon
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Quad Cities Running Festival Half Marathon
The Quad Cities Running Festival offers point-to-point road races along the Great River Trail on the Mississippi River between Port Byron and East Moline. The event includes a Half Marathon, a 5K, and a Kids 1/2 Mile race, and the finish area features live music.
Race logistics include paid shuttle service to both starting areas for an additional fee of $10 per person; a racing bib is required for shuttle use. Shuttle pickup is located outside The Rust Belt, capacity is capped at 215 runners per race, dogs and strollers are not allowed on the shuttles, and no race day shuttle passes will be sold. The Half Marathon starting line is by the large bicycle statue between Cherry and Linn Street. The 5K starting line is at the Hampton Heritage Center. The Kids 1/2 Mile run begins at The Rust Belt.
Main packet pickup takes place on Saturday, May 23 at Fleet Feet Davenport; race day packet pickup is at the Midwest Ale Works patio. Aid stations on the Half Marathon are positioned at several mile markers and provide water and Gatorade, with select stations offering bathrooms and GU gel. The 5K has an aid station near Beacon Harbor.
Post-race amenities at Midwest Ale Works include complimentary pancakes, coffee, water, and beer for participants who show their bib, plus a live performance by a 90s cover band. Awards recognize the top three overall male and female finishers and top three male and female finishers in standard age divisions. The 2026 event debuts new finisher medals in a Backstage Pass-style holographic design. Race registration includes a performance race shirt provided by Brooks; shirts tend to run about half a size small and are offered in unisex and women’s sizing. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
