Illinois Marathon Reviews

  

By Anonymous about 2019

  FUN, FUN, FUN

By LH about 2019

Review

I am NOT a runner, BUT I love this 5k! There are so many great runs that our whole family and friends find and event just right for them! Every detail is taken care of and they have the coolest metals!!! Love the bands and music along the way!

Race Tips

Expect tons of support along the route!

Logistical Tips (Hotels, Restaurants, Parking, Discounts, etc.)

There is ample parking and the courses are well planned

  Flat and fast

By J Gonzalez about 2019

Review

Small but not so small race (1,000 people running the full, around 3,000 running the half). Good support in terms of volunteers and hydration, and completely flat.

The start was very easy and well organized, 6 different waves, lots of porta potties (but of course they still had long lines). No security hassles, and lots of parking around.

Sparse support from the crowd (Probably due to being a college town on a saturday at 7am), not enough fast pacers (Fastest was 3:15, 3:05 got injured).

Race Tips

Small hill around mile 24, not all hydration points are separated by the same distance so it might be something to consider. Even pace/effort seems to be the best bet.

Logistical Tips (Hotels, Restaurants, Parking, Discounts, etc.)

Stayed at the Illini Union, close to the start/finish, and my family was able to easily spot me at miles 1.5, 12, and then they drove to 19. They then parked near the stadium and waited for me inside to see me finish.

  Fantastic Event

By CW about 2019

Review

Full disclosure, I've only participated in 4 half/full marathon events - Kansas City, St. Louis, Wichita, and now Champaign, but this was by far the best of any. I'm not really going to get into the expo or post-race events although both were high quality, but the most important aspect - the race - was such a good experience. The course was marked exceptionally well, including signs at every intersection and volunteers galore; there was zero chance of getting off course. The water/gatorade stations were well placed and there were plenty of them. Everyone was super helpful and friendly. The course difficulty as described on this site is accurate. It's not pancake flat but it is a great course to BQ on. Any hills are very subtle and never last long. Even the hill at mile 24 which is the only real hill in the entire race is over in a little over 1/4 mile and it followed by a nice downhill to finish off the race. All of the turns were reasonable; the only small quip I had was when you run through the park the trail weaves a bit making it a little more difficult but this is a very small complaint.

Race Tips

Don't worry at all about the mile 24 hill. I think I let it get in my head and held back a bit leading up to it, then had more energy for the last mile than expected. While that sounds great on the surface, I would rather have cut 10-15 seconds a mile during 23-25 and let 26 take care of itself with it being downhill.

  Very well organized

By SL about 2018

Review

This marathon is very well organized. Their miles are marked well, they provide water, Gatorade, and fuel at many stations. The time of the race is nice because at the end of April the weather is usually not hot or cold on race day and you can do your training before the weather gets hot. I love that the whole city gets into the race the weekend of. There are tons of supporters during the race, businesses and even people who live along the race route cater to the runners while we're in town. It makes the race a really fun atmosphere!

Race Tips

It's a nice, fairly flat course. The race is busy so get there at a good time beforehand and take advantage of all the free stuff at the expo and on the course!

Logistical Tips (Hotels, Restaurants, Parking, Discounts, etc.)

The Saturday of the race gets very busy so I recommend having a hotel the night before. Be sure to book it several months in advance. I've never had trouble parking the day of, just remember to read your information carefully to know where you can park and plan extra time in case traffic gets backed up.

  Epic Race, Amazing organization, Lace up and GO!

By dc about 2018

Review

This was the first marathon I ever ran, and gosh was it an amazing experience. Not only does the course have an excellent setup, but the volunteers, scenery, music, entertainment, & spectators ensure it will be a positive experience throughout. So much thought, care, and love is put into this race! The directors love to hear and actively work to improve minor things every year! Great post race snacks, too!

Race Tips

Well marked, with lots of volunteers guiding the path. Great pacing groups that are very reliable! Extremely friendly if you join in late and want to stay with a group throughout the event.

Logistical Tips (Hotels, Restaurants, Parking, Discounts, etc.)

Champaign-Urbana is a great city for a marathon, located in the heart of IL, robust campus town, has lots of options while still maintaining a small town vibe. Plenty of parking at the event.

  Super fun and flat

By eh about 2018

Review

The energy in Champaign Urbana is incredible during this race! The volunteers are great and there are so many random people and households along the way to cheer on the runners, it is impossible to not have fun :D

Race Tips

It's a flat course and a very popular Boston qualifier. Roads are all concrete or asphalt and the Cities do their best to make sure the route is in great shape right before the race.

Logistical Tips (Hotels, Restaurants, Parking, Discounts, etc.)

If you have a friend in town, stay with them! Otherwise book your hotel early.
We have numerous fabulous restaurants, it's hard to single out any.
There is plenty of parking, just don't wait until the last minute.
Also, don't miss the expo on Thursday and Friday. Give yourself time to check that out.

  Great starter Marathon

By CFJ about 2018

Review

The course is mostly flat. I liked finishing in the football stadium.
The helpers are the best.
I didn't like walking up to get out of the stadium.

Race Tips

You are also running with the Half Marathon Runners. When the Half turns toward the finish it gets a little lonely.

  Great for the newbie or seasoned runner

By Kayla about 2018

Review

This marathon is great for the newbie or seasoned runner due to its flat course and well laid out design.

Race Tips

Flat course and typically on the colder side

  My favorite!!!!

By Mariah P about 2018

Review

The Illinois marathon weekend is the absolute best!!!! Everything from the swag, to the course, the amazing crowd cheering every step of the way, finishing on the football field, great after race food. Its definitely my favorite race.

Race Tips

The pre race food was great!!! Trying to get in to our corral was a bit frustrating.

Logistical Tips (Hotels, Restaurants, Parking, Discounts, etc.)

Parking can be a bit tricky. I parked a street over from campus and walked a block or 2.

  Awesome

By Anonymous about 2018

Review

Hospitality is great, the whole community comes out to tailgate for this race.

  Great Flat Boston Qualifier

By DGA about 2018

Review

Incredible volunteers. very flat and fast course. I PR every time I race here.

Race Tips

Very flat course. Only congestion point is at 8-10 miles if you are running slower than 2/4 hours pace for half/full. This portion is through a beautiful city park but the path is only about 6 persons wide or less over bridges.

Logistical Tips (Hotels, Restaurants, Parking, Discounts, etc.)

Make your hotel reservations early. Check the web site for participating hotels and shuttles for morning of race.

  Perfectly Executed Run!

By CAR about 2018

Review

Loved the flat terrain and that everything was run efficiently. Loved crossing the finish line in the Football Stadium at the University of Illinois.

  Exciting marathon

By BSB about 2018

Review

Its a rush... Well organization... For my age i feel encourage and welcome!

Race Tips

I try to set my pace and just work hard to keep it through out, it helps me hip issues.

Logistical Tips (Hotels, Restaurants, Parking, Discounts, etc.)

I live here so i park south of the start line.

  Smooth easy course

By LW about 2018

Review

Friendly people urging you on, and the course is pretty level. Champaign-Urbana is scenic in April and is a nice place to visit.

  Great Course

By HJSL about 2018

Review

Nice flat course!

Race Tips

Course is easy to follow.

Logistical Tips (Hotels, Restaurants, Parking, Discounts, etc.)

Come early for parking!

  Awesome race - awesome people

By My Nguyen about 2018

Review

The medals - the organizers - the volunteers- the crowds

Race Tips

Flat course throughout

  I never miss it.

By LKD about 2018

Race Tips

Watch out for a hill around mile 9 in a subdivision.

Logistical Tips (Hotels, Restaurants, Parking, Discounts, etc.)

Pay attention to traffic beltway (see race-provided map) when parking.

  Best race community

By Kg about 2018

Review

Race directors, community, and volunteers.

Race Tips

Stay the weekend. Run the 5k and half/full marathon.

Logistical Tips (Hotels, Restaurants, Parking, Discounts, etc.)

Book hotels early for best rate.

  Fun and Flat

By DLB about 2018

Review

I love the crowd support, the super awesome finishers medals and getting to finish on the Illinois Football Field. But the greatest thing is the course is almost all flat so you can PR!!

Race Tips

On race expect a lot of fun and a lot of people so patience is key

Logistical Tips (Hotels, Restaurants, Parking, Discounts, etc.)

For $10.00 you can buy a shower pass to use the athletic center after the race. The greatest $10.00 you will spend, get cleaned up before you head home

  Friendly neighborhoods to run through

By Anonymous about 2018

Review

It's all good. Several live music venues along the way. Friendly neighborhoods to run through and the finish line is inside the stadium.

  Just awesome

By Apc about 2018

Review

Great all around. Easy access to information. Great porta potties. Well stock and frequent tables.

Race Tips

Run it. Love it.

  Go Illinois Marathon!

By Mark about 2018

Review

Very well organized!

Race Tips

Let the crowd do all the hard work for you. They're there for you!

Logistical Tips (Hotels, Restaurants, Parking, Discounts, etc.)

Many hotels near the event to choose from. Parking is outstanding! Many different lots near the start line.

  AMAZING

By jrr about 2018

Review

Like the beautiful course. Do not like the polyester race shirts.

  Flat Boston qualifier.

By SMH about 2018

Review

God atmosphere. Finish at memorial stadium.

Logistical Tips (Hotels, Restaurants, Parking, Discounts, etc.)

Arrive Early.

  Love Running into Memorial Stadium!!

By David Spinner about 2018

Review

This is a Great event capped off by finishing in the Memorial Stadium where Red Grange played. That was one of the things that drew me to this event. Then last year the local TV station selected my Cousin Paul and I to be the Face of the race. What a Great event.

Race Tips

The course is fairly flat which helps having a lower finishing time which helps making a Personal BEST time as I did last year.

Logistical Tips (Hotels, Restaurants, Parking, Discounts, etc.)

I like the Illinois Marathon and Indy Marathon the best as the starting line is close to shelters where you can warm up/work out to be run ready when the race starts as the starts are usually cold.

  Christie Clinic Review

By Ryan about 2018

Review

Excellent course aid in the long races. They had water and gu every 7 miles ish. Plenty of spectators around campustown/downtown Champaign-Urbana. Awesome finish through a tunnel and into Memorial Stadium!

Race Tips

Prepare for any weather conditions. Late April in Champaign is a mixed bag. Expect to feel great through the first half, but from miles 18-24, it can be pretty lonely. Especially 19-22. Even though the Urbana Country Club seems a long ways from Memorial Stadium, the finish line comes quickly from there.

Logistical Tips (Hotels, Restaurants, Parking, Discounts, etc.)

Park at the northern side of Assembly Hall on campus, close to the stadium. Have plenty of cold weather gear in your car.

  The best race!!!!

By Muscles about 2018

Review

Very organized, post race food is the best, & the medals are always awesome & never disappointing. The finish is on the 50 yard line of the Fighting Illini. The race organizers always respond to all questions sent via email. You can't go wrong running this race!!!!!

Race Tips

Pacers are very positive, plenty of drink stations, & lots of support from the community.

Logistical Tips (Hotels, Restaurants, Parking, Discounts, etc.)

Hotels are walking distance from start line, & if drive morning of race plenty of parking.

  Well organized, fun and exciting

By Karen about 2018

Review

I like how extremely organized they are. I also love that most of the money goes to well deserving nonprofits.

Race Tips

Just be ready to have fun.

Logistical Tips (Hotels, Restaurants, Parking, Discounts, etc.)

Arrive early enough to get a close parking space. There is plenty of parking.

  Well run and easy to participate in

By MFH about 2018

Review

Well run and easy to participate in.

Race Tips

Great areas to run and flat

  Race Directors are great!

By CE about 2018

Review

Staff support is amazing, directly responding individually, with quick help and genuine concern for the runners!

Logistical Tips (Hotels, Restaurants, Parking, Discounts, etc.)

Book your room as early as possible for better access and price.

  Best Fans Ever!

By Anonymous about 2018

Review

The fans and community are better than anywhere else in the country. Illini Country can't be beat!

  Run with the wind

By MSH about 2018

Review

The directors are outstanding and the races are well organized. The crowds are friendly and supportive and all of the volunteers are amazing.

Race Tips

Be prepared for any weather conditions. The worst can be the winds or raining with cool temps.

Logistical Tips (Hotels, Restaurants, Parking, Discounts, etc.)

Follow the directors to avoid traffic jams and being late to the start line.

  

By Anonymous about 2018

  Well Organized and Easy to Run

By KK about 2018

Review

The Illinois Marathon is the best run Marathon I have ever run. The pacers are accurate. The housing is abundant. Parking is easy and the after party surroundings are fantastic.

  Great support and great course

By Marty about 2018

Review

Great support and great course. Almost completely flat with just a few very minor hills. Friendly and supportive crew.

Race Tips

My strategy was to run with the 3:50 pacer so I could BQ but that turned out to be unwise for a couple reasons. I really needed to start slower and more conservatively so I would have energy at the end. If you read my Erie Marathon review you will see I changed strategy and went with the slower pacer and it made all the difference in the end.

Be sure to wait outside the corral until you are absolutely sure you have peed all you need to pee! I made the mistake of getting in too early and then having to stop at mile 6.

Logistical Tips (Hotels, Restaurants, Parking, Discounts, etc.)

There are plenty of hotels just about 1/2 to 1/4 mile away off campus. It's an easy walk or warm up jog to the start line from the closest hotels. There did seem to be plenty of parking if you are too far to do that.

  Fast and flat

By DGA about 2017

Review

Great volunteers. Incredible expo. Very fast flat course.

Race Tips

Expect lots of fans and plenty of racers. Pacers do an excellent job.

Logistical Tips (Hotels, Restaurants, Parking, Discounts, etc.)

Use the web site when booking hotel rooms some have shuttle service and others do not.

  From Subject Received Size info@findmymarathon.com Review from Madness Page: Illinois Marathon 4/5

By dfc about 2017

Review

Although I have not run the full marathon I have run the I-Challenge twice and I love it. It is a pretty flat course but an absolute challenge! I love the flat course but hated the bad weather (which the Race directors have nothing to do with) the two years that I ran it!

Race Tips

Race day is a thrill, pace yourself for a fast course because there are no real downhill runs to catch up!

Logistical Tips (Hotels, Restaurants, Parking, Discounts, etc.)

Parking in the Assembly Hall parking lot was more than convenient!

  Good course and good support

By Anonymous about 2017

Review

Good course and good support

  Want flat - this is it!

By rjt about 2016

Review

My 1st love of this course is that it is FLAT! No "rolling hills" that usually is someone's lame perception of major incline just to see what you got in the tank. The crowd that comes out along this course is AMAZING - both for the half marathon AND the full. The organization of putting this event on has NEVER been less than AWESOME. ILL....INI! It's the best in the midwest!!

Race Tips

It's Illinois - and it's April.... so do not go into this race expecting you can predict the weather. BUT the one thing you can count on there is always winds - some years it's been stronger than others. Book your hotel as soon as possible so you can be as close as possible to walk to the start and from the finish. I recommend Hilton Garden Inn - staff has ALWAYS been amazing and they are ready for it being a race weekend.

Logistical Tips (Hotels, Restaurants, Parking, Discounts, etc.)

Whoops - mentioned this above.

Hilton Garden Inn - have stayed there at least 5 years in a row now - they are VERY accomodating to anyone participating or supporting others who participate in this race. If you don't want to do the event dinner....Nando Milano - AMAZING Italian food for carb loading the night before... on the higher $$$ but worth it. More mainstream - you have Biaggi's, Olive Garden, Fazoli's. Post race - Kofusion or Destihl. For breakfast - The Original Pancake House, get there EARLY or be prepared to wait - it's worth it!

  

By rjt about 2016

  Perfect size marathon

By NJE about 2016

Review

The venue was great. There was adequate fan support. Absolutely loved the course and finishing in the U of Illinois stadium was great.

  Unforgettable

By AC about 2016

Review

Excellent environment, cheering and playing music the whole race, and variety of landscapes around Urbana-Champaign

Race Tips

Super flat and fast race

  Flat and fast race!

By zn about 2015

Review

Well managed. Friendly people at the expo and GREAT fans spread across the course.

Race Tips

It is a very flat course but remember to grab water when you can because some years it is warm.

  Flat and great local support!

By JM about 2014

  Fast course, exciting finish!

By JLS about 2013

Review

I loved the variety of the scenery on the course. Running through campus town of Champaign and through downtown Urbana. Subsequently through the peaceful countryside and ending in the college football stadium. Great place for friends/family to spectate and cheer on their runners.

Race Tips

The weather can vary greatly. I've run this marathon 4x and been there in cooler weather, damp and super sunny days. So be prepared for different temps.

Logistical Tips (Hotels, Restaurants, Parking, Discounts, etc.)

I've stayed in both Champaign and Urbana for race weekends. I typically leave a little earlier to ensure I have time to park and stretch before the race. Depending on when you arrive it can be a longer walk to the starting corral. As for hotels, over the years they've been more accommodating to runners, like offering breakfast earlier for runners.

  

By EMR about 2013

Review

Super flat course if that's what you're looking for. Excellent fan support. Good sized expo and I got to meet Katherine Switzer! Finishing on the Illini football field is fun. Using the U 0f Illinois campus for expo and race start made parking (free) a breeze. Some bad road conditions especially in the campus and the course while pleasant isn't scenic.

Race Tips

The course is very flat. A runner should be able to settle into a consistent pace and if the weather cooperate (it did in 2013) a PR can be accomplished here. Plenty of aid stations and 4 gel stops. Every water stop was organized differently unfortunately. Uniformity is so important late in a race when fatigue sets in.

Logistical Tips (Hotels, Restaurants, Parking, Discounts, etc.)

I camped so I can\'t comment on host hotels but I did take advantage of the shower option after the race in the University recreation center and that was excellent. Plenty of free parking on the stadium parking lots.