Starved Rock Country Marathon
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Starved Rock Country Marathon
The event offers a marathon, half marathon, 10K and 5K in and around Ottawa, Illinois, with courses that include the Illinois River, Starved Rock State Park, and local neighborhoods. The marathon is record eligible and features 16 aid stations stocked with Gatorade. Organizers plan to stock one aid station for the half and two for the marathon with GU.
The half marathon starts in the heart of Starved Rock State Park and follows a flat, fast course that moves between wooded scenery and riverfront views. The 10K follows an outback route along Rt 71 on the banks of the Illinois River. The 5K starts and finishes on the same lines used by the marathon and follows part of the marathon route before returning to Ottawa for a riverside finish. A portion of the 5K benefits local charities and programs that promote running and physical activity.
The course will remain open for six hours in 2027, a change from the previous six and a half hours. Buses to the half marathon start line are available on race morning from 5:30 until 6:45am, and limited parking is available at the start inside Starved Rock State Park. Packet pickup is Friday, May 7 at the Ottawa YMCA, with bibs, participant shirts, and a swag bag provided. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
