Event Description

Now in its 9th year, (8th running, have to count Covid) the 2023 Starved Rock Country Marathon and Half Marathon have become the "must do" events 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.  The Half Marathon starts in the heart of Starved Rock State Park and ends along the Illinois River in Ottawa. The Marathon and Half Marathon do have some elvation changes but the scenery is well worth it. 

The Run Starved Rock 5K will start and end at the same lines as the marathon and follow 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 another race.  A portion of this event will benefit local charities and events to promote running and physical activity.  

There is NO Race Day registration

The packet pickup will be held from 1 - 8PM on Friday May 12, 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

Tentative - 

Friday May 12th - 

Packet Pickup - 1 -8PM 

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

Saturday May 13th - 

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

Marathon starts - 7:00 AM (Downtown Ottawa)

Run Starved Rock Country 5K starts - 7:00AM (Downtown Ottawa)

Half Marathon Starts (inside Starved Rock State Park) - 7:30AM

Finish line open  - 7:15AM - 1:30PM

After party to follow races

Awards will be handed out at finish line

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