Races

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 al

Join us on June 13th as Spirits Run returns to Ottawa for our second LaSalle County adventure — this time hosted at the legendary Berta’s Tap. Our statewide mission is to complete all 102 Illinois counties, and we’re thrilled to add another LaSalle stamp to the Spirits Run Adventure Book. This is a relaxed, social 5K where runners and walkers explore a local route, visit a historic cemetery, and celebrate afterward with great people, great drinks, and great vibes. Event Schedule8:00 AM – Setup9:00 AM – Participant check‑in10:00 AM – Run beginsWhat’s IncludedOne cocktail at Berta’s TapOne small bite to eat (always something tasty!)Official Spirits Run T‑shirtWoodie‑style wooden medalLaSalle County Stamp #2 for your Adventure BookA fun, friendly crowd and a great local atmosphereSpirits Run events are all about community, exploration, and enjoying the morning with fun people. This is not a timed race — it’s a good‑vibes run with a celebratory finish. We can’t wait to see you at Berta’s T

Run the Plank To Support the Pirates The ship needs your help!  Come out and run a 5k to support the Ottawa Township High School Cross Country Team! Race day registration / packet pick-up @ 8:00amRace start time @ 9:00amCourse starts at Ottawa High School, runs through the scenic river walk, I&M Canal and winds the east side to finish back at Ottawa High School!Certified Distance (3.1 miles)Traffic controlled. Early bird registration is $30 if registered by May 15th, 2026. All registration after May 15th, 2026 will be $35, including race day. Shirts are only guaranteed to those who per-register on or before Friday, May 15, 2026.LIVE MUSIC!We will Run The Plank rain or shine. In the event of cancelation due to extreme weather there will not be a make up date. Water and refreshments will be available at the finish line.This race benefits OHS XC Team and a portion of proceeds will go to Run Today for Tomorrow

Run Today for Tomorrow's 7th annual 5K is back, and as of December of 2025, Run Today for Tomorrow, Inc. is officially a 501c3!! All proceeds will stay in the community and provide financial assistance to community members in getting the help they need as well as a mental health scholarship for local students in the Mental Health field of study. We are partnered with the Starved Rock Country Community Foundation to make this happen. The goal of Run Today for Tomorrow, Inc. is to bring hope and provide help to those affected by suicide. We're running today because we believe in a Tomorrow where everyone is here to see it☀️ Join us on June 28th for our in-person race or virtually you can run around your neighborhood, on a trail, or on a treadmill, post your results, and help share our message with the world!  Another exciting update for 2026; we will be hosting our very first LaSalle County Wellness Fair! The Wellness Fair is a free, family-friendly event that is all about celebr

Runway to a Cure 5KSaturday, September 19 • Skydive Chicago • Ottawa, IllinoisPacket Pick-up 7:00am • Race Starts 8:00am Join us for Runway to a Cure, a one-of-a-kind 5K run and walk held directly on the runway at Skydive Chicago—bringing our community together to raise meaningful support for cancer research and honor the strength of survivors, fighters, and the loved ones we carry with us. This powerful event was inspired by a personal journey through cancer treatment and the extraordinary care received at Northwestern Medicine. Runway to a Cure transforms gratitude into action, creating an unforgettable experience where every step taken on the runway helps move us closer to a cure. What to Expect  A unique runway-based 5K course open to runners and walkers of all ages  A moving Survivor Recognition Lap to celebrate courage and resilience  Skydiver flag landing ceremony honoring those impacted by cancer  Family-friendly atmosphere with music, community sponsors, and activities  Raffle

Join LaSalle County Sheriff's Office for an exciting morning of fitness and community at the Run the River for Respect 5K , happening on September 27, 2026 at the beautiful Heritage Harbor in Ottawa, IL! Lace up your running shoes and prepare to challenge yourself in this officially timed 5K race, designed for everyone from casual joggers to serious competitors.   Event Details: - Date: September 27, 2026 - Time: Race starts at 8 AM. In-person registration from 7:45 AM to 8:45 AM. - Location: Heritage Harbor, Ottawa, IL   **Registration Fees:** $30 if you register before August 27th$35 for registrations after August 27th$40 after September 12th$45 Day of event   T-shirts: Be one of the lucky ones! Register by September 12th to guarantee your exclusive race t-shirt.   Why Run? All proceeds from this fun-filled event will benefit Special Olympics Illinois, supporting athletes with intellectual disabilities and empowering them to achieve excellence in sports.   Whether you’re sprintin