Starved Rock Country Marathon
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Starved Rock Country Marathon
The event on May 8, 2027 takes place in Ottawa, Illinois, with courses that pass through Starved Rock State Park and along the Illinois River. The race program includes multiple distances and race options.
- Marathon: 26.2 miles
- Half Marathon: 13.1 miles
- 10K: 6.2 miles
- 5K: 3.1 miles
The marathon is a record eligible course that showcases river views, neighborhoods of Ottawa, rolling hills, and wooded areas near Starved Rock State Park. The half marathon begins in the heart of Starved Rock State Park and is described as a flat, fast course that moves between park scenery and Ottawa neighborhoods. The 10K runs along a scenic portion of Route 71 on the banks of the Illinois River. The 5K starts and finishes on the same lines as the marathon, follows part of the marathon route, and then returns to Ottawa for a riverside finish. A portion of the 5K benefits local charities and events promoting running and physical activity.
Aid and support information: the marathon course has 16 aid stations with Gatorade at each station. Organizers plan to stock one aid station for the half and two for the marathon with GU. For 2027 the course will remain open for 6 hours.
Packet pickup is Friday, May 7 at the Ottawa YMCA, 411 Canal St, Ottawa, IL, from 1pm to 8pm. Runners receive bibs, a participant shirt, and a swag bag at pickup. Packet pickup day registration does not include a shirt. Runners who register after April 20 cannot be guaranteed a shirt or medal. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
