Hillstriders March Madness Half Marathon

Hillstriders March Madness Half Marathon

Registration

Race Day is March 14th 2027

Race Start Time is 8:35am

For more information, visit the official race page.

Runner Information

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

Event Location

• Venue: The 2027 March Madness Half Marathon Event will be held at Cary-Grove High School.
• Address: 2208 Three Oaks Road, Cary, IL 60013.
• Pre/Post Race: The 2027 Pre and Post Race Event will be 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

• Date & Time: Saturday March 13th - 10am to 4pm at Running Depot in Crystal Lake.
• Date & Time: Sunday March 14th - 6:30am to 8:00am at Cary-Grove High School Gym.

Scholarship Fund (Fundraiser)

In 2026, 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

• VIP Option: There will be a VIP option open during registration.
• Benefits: VIP Runners will receive a parking pass for a dedicated parking area, complimentary coffee, and private restrooms.
• Funding: 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 displayed 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.

Directions

Cary is located on US Rt. 14 approximately 50 miles northwest of downtown Chicago. Take US Rt. 14 west to First Street, North on First St. to Three Oaks Road. Cary-Grove High School is located at 2208 Three Oaks Road, Cary IL 60013.

Awards and Swag

• Race Premium: Each race participant will receive a Race Premium shirt (Limited Sizing available).
• Finisher Medal: All Finishers will receive a custom March Madness Half Marathon Medal based on the 2026 Art Scholarship winner.
• Awards Ceremony: Ceremony will occur at approximately 11am.
• Awards Criteria: Overall Male and Female Winners will be awarded, and post-event refreshments will be available at the finish area.

*Awards must be picked up on the day of the event.

Team Awards

Team Awards will be given to teams of 4 or more in two categories:

• Fastest Time: Fastest overall Time.
• Participation: Most participation.

Awards do not have any monetary value: the Team or team representative must be present at the awards ceremony to receive the award. The race director has the final decision on awards given.

Running Shirt Sizing

Sizes will be available based on demand, participants should indicate their size when registering.

Registration Price Schedule

1/2 Open Registration Price Schedule

Sept 1 - Nov 30th	$75	Plus registration service fees
Dec 1 - Jan 30th	$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

10K Registration Price Schedule

Oct 1 - Nov 30th	$55	Plus registration service fees
Dec 1 - Jan 30th	$60	Plus registration service fees
Feb 1 - Feb 28	$65	Plus registration service fees
Mar 1 - Race Day	$70	Plus registration service fees