Description

Now in its 8th year, (7th running, thank you Covid) the 2021 Starved Rock Country Half Marathon has become the "must do" event of the running community in central Illinois. The Half Marathon course will again encompass the scenery of the Illinois River, the neighborhoods of Ottawa and the rolling landscapes in and around Starved Rock State Park. Runners will be inspired by the scenery of rolling country hills and natural rock formations tucked into heavily wooded areas created by the Illinois River thousands of years ago.  Runners participating in the Half Marathon, which starts in the heart of Starved Rock State Park will also experience the wooded scenery and sites along the Illinois River. The Half Marathon is does have some elvation changes but the scenery is well worth it. Each runner will receive a participant shirt and finishers receive a race specific medal.

Continuing on in 2021 will be The Run Starved Rock 5K.  This event will start and end at the same lines as the marathon, and following part of the Half Marathon route before heading back to Ottawa for a finish along the river.  The event is a great addition for those who want to participate in the events of the day as well as family/friends looking to do something while their loved one or friend is running anohter race.  A portion of this event will benefit local charities and events to promote running and physical activity.  

Again this year, Walmart will be our Expo Sponsor, the Health expo/packet pickup will be held from Noon - 8PM on Friday September 17th, Ottawa Knights of Columbus Hall, 401 W. Main Street, Ottawa, IL. Runners will recieve their bibs (required for race participation), participant shirt as well as aswag bag filled with local and regional offers and race information.  

Event details and schedule

Friday September 17th - 

Walmart Health Expo / Packet Pickup - Noon -8PM 

       Knights of Columbus Hall, 401 W. Main Street, Ottawa, IL

Saturday September 18th - 

Half Marathon Bus transportation to start line - 5:30AM - 6:45AM

Run Starved Rock Country 5K starts - 7:10AM

Half Marathon Starts (inside Starved Rock State Park) - 7:00AM

Finish line open  - 8:00AM - 12:00PM

For more information regarding race and event schedules, please click here