Hillstriders March Madness Half Marathon

Hillstriders March Madness Half Marathon

RACE DAY IS MARCH 15th 2026
Race Start Time is 8:35am

Runner Information
You must be able to complete the March Madness half marathon in 3.5 hours or less.
Race numbers are required to participate – no bandits please.
All participants must sign the waiver!
You must be in good health and physically prepared to participate
You must show photo ID to receive your race number and timing tag.
Coaches, baby-joggers, bikes, dogs, in-line skates, skateboards or dogs will not be allowed on the course.
If you attempt to sell your race number, you may be banned from future racing.
Please Review the FAQ before completing the registration form.

Event Location
The 2026 March Madness Half Marathon Event will be held at Cary-Grove high School. 2208 Three oaks Road Cary, IL. 60013
The 2026 Pre and Post Race Event will be on held indoors in the CGHS gym

Event Cancellation Information
There is NO alternate race date, We will run Rain or Shine.
In case of inclement weather, COVID pandemic regulations , or any other safety issue, the Hillstriders Running club reserves the right to cancel/alter/modify the race/course for safety concerns.
If the participant is not able to participate due to injury or health issues, our standard policy is no refunds or deferrals.

Packet pickup
Packet pickup options:
Saturday March 14th - 10am to 4pm - Running Depot in Crystal Lake
Sunday March 15th - 6:30am to 8:00am - Cary-Grove High School Gym

Scholarship Fund (Fundraiser)
In 2025, the Hillstriders Running Club awarded $15,000 in scholarship money to graduating seniors from McHenry County high schools in memory of Fritz Kauffman.
A portion of the fees that are collected are used to fund the scholarship program, any donations above the race fee will directly fund the Scholarship program.

VIP Entries
There will be an VIP option open during registration.
VIP Runners will receive a parking pass for dedicated parking area, complimentary coffee and private restrooms.
The fees from VIP entries will directly fund the Distance Scholarship program.

Course
The March Madness Half Marathon Course is a USATF certified course: IL-23027-NM.
Water and Gatorade will be provided at 2.5 mile intervals and at the finish line.
Finish line clock time will be on display for all runners.
Washrooms will be on the course at 3, 5 and 9 miles.
Strollers, bikes, roller blades and dogs are not allowed on the course.
Course will close promptly at 11:35 AM.

Awards and Swag
Each race participant will receive a Race Premium running shirt (Limited Sizing available)
All Finishers will receive custom March Madness Half Marathon Medal based on the 2025 Art Scholarship winner
Awards ceremony will occur at approximately 11am*
Overall Male and Female Winners will be awarded
Post event refreshments will be available at the finish area.
*Awards must be picked up on day of event.
Team Awards will be given to teams of 4 or more in two categories
1. Fastest overall Time
2. Most participation
Awards do not have any monetary value, Team or team representative must be present at awards ceremony to receive award.
Race director has final decision on awards given.

Running Shirt Sizing

Open Registration Price Schedule:
Sept 1 - Nov 30th $75 Plus registration service fees
Dec 1 - Jan30th $80 Plus registration service fees
Feb 1 - Feb 28 $85 Plus registration service fees
Mar 1 - Race Day $90 Plus registration service fees

VIP Registration Price Schedule:
Sept 1 - Jan 30th $150 Plus registration service fees
Feb 1 - Race Day $160 Plus registration service fees