Starved Rock Country Marathon
- Date Sat 9th May 2026
- Time 7:00AM CDT
- Location Ottawa, Illinois
- Price $43.40 - $107.00
- Races 6 races
- Distances Marathon, Half Marathon, 10km, 5km
Event summary
Get ready for an unforgettable day of running at the 2026 Starved Rock Country Marathon, taking place on Saturday, May 9th, in the picturesque city of Ottawa, La Salle. Celebrating its 12th year, this event has become a highlight in the central Illinois running calendar, attracting enthusiasts from far and wide. Participants can choose from a variety of race distances, including the full marathon, half marathon, 10K, and 5K, making it accessible for runners of all levels.
The marathon course showcases the breathtaking scenery along the Illinois River, weaving through charming neighborhoods and the stunning landscapes of Starved Rock State Park. Runners will be treated to the beauty of rolling hills and impressive rock formations, all while benefiting from 16 aid stations stocked with Gatorade and GU for fuel. The half marathon promises a flat and fast route, perfect for achieving personal bests, while the new 10K takes runners on a scenic journey along the banks of the river. Don't miss the chance to be part of this vibrant event that not only promotes fitness but also supports local charities. Mark your calendars and join in the excitement as you run through the heart of central Illinois!
The marathon course showcases the breathtaking scenery along the Illinois River, weaving through charming neighborhoods and the stunning landscapes of Starved Rock State Park. Runners will be treated to the beauty of rolling hills and impressive rock formations, all while benefiting from 16 aid stations stocked with Gatorade and GU for fuel. The half marathon promises a flat and fast route, perfect for achieving personal bests, while the new 10K takes runners on a scenic journey along the banks of the river. Don't miss the chance to be part of this vibrant event that not only promotes fitness but also supports local charities. Mark your calendars and join in the excitement as you run through the heart of central Illinois!
Organiser's Description
Back for a 12th year, the 2026 Starved Rock Country Marathon and Half Marathon, 5K and now 10K have become the "must do" events of the running community in central Illinois. The 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. This record eligible marathon course has 16 aide stations with Gatorade at each station and we plan to stock one station for the half and two for the marathon with GU. Runners participating in the Half Marathon, which starts in the heart of Starved Rock State Park, will experience the neighborhoods of Ottawa in addition to wooded scenery and sites along the Illinois River. The Half Marathon is a flat, fast course making for a nice run through country and city alike. Each runner will receive a participant shirt and finishers receive a race specific medal which will be the fifth in the series.
PLEASE NOTE THAT IN 2026, the course will only remain open 6 HOURS, which is different than the 6.5 hours of the past. We understand this change might affect some; however, it is necessary to get roads back open in a safe timeline.
The Run Starved Rock 5K will return as well. This event will start and end at the same lines as the marathon, and follow part of the 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 while their loved one or friend is running another race. A portion of this event will benefit local charities and events promoting running and physical activity.
New in 2026, the 10K will also be an outback course along even more scenic portion of Rt 71 literally on the banks of the Illinois River.
The Health expo/packet pickup will be held from Noon - 8PM on Friday May 8th, Rivers Edge event center (formally the Kof C hall), 401 W. Main Street, Ottawa, IL. Runners will receive their bibs (required for race participation), participant shirt, as well as a swag bag filled with local and regional offers and race information.
PLEASE NOTE THAT IN 2026, the course will only remain open 6 HOURS, which is different than the 6.5 hours of the past. We understand this change might affect some; however, it is necessary to get roads back open in a safe timeline.
The Run Starved Rock 5K will return as well. This event will start and end at the same lines as the marathon, and follow part of the 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 while their loved one or friend is running another race. A portion of this event will benefit local charities and events promoting running and physical activity.
New in 2026, the 10K will also be an outback course along even more scenic portion of Rt 71 literally on the banks of the Illinois River.
The Health expo/packet pickup will be held from Noon - 8PM on Friday May 8th, Rivers Edge event center (formally the Kof C hall), 401 W. Main Street, Ottawa, IL. Runners will receive their bibs (required for race participation), participant shirt, as well as a swag bag filled with local and regional offers and race information.
Races
-
Marathon
Incl. $7.00 Fee & T-Shirt
Sat 9th May 2026 (7:00AM CDT)
$107.00
-
Marathon - No Shirt
Incl. $6.40 Fee
Sat 9th May 2026 (7:00AM CDT)
$96.40
This option is for those wishing to run but do not wish to receive a race shirt. -
Half Marathon
Incl. $6.40 Fee & T-Shirt
Sat 9th May 2026 (7:30AM CDT)
$96.40
Buses to the start line are available on race morning starting at 5:30am until 6:45am, limited parking is available at the start line inside Starved Rock State Park, but there is no bus service to the park after the race is over. -
Half Marathon - No Shirt
Incl. $5.80 Fee
Sat 9th May 2026 (7:30AM CDT)
$85.80
Buses to the start line are available on race morning starting at 5:30am until 6:45am, limited parking is available at the start line inside Starved Rock State Park, but there is no bus service to the park after the race is over. This option is for those wishing to run but do not wish to receive a race shirt. -
10k
Incl. $4.60 Fee & T-Shirt
Sat 9th May 2026 (7:00AM CDT)
$64.60
-
5k
Incl. $3.40 Fee & T-Shirt
Sat 9th May 2026 (7:00AM CDT)
$43.40
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805 LaSalle Street, Ottawa, 61350, IL, United States
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