5K, 10K, Half & Full Marathons

  • 5k races
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    About 5k races

    A 5K is the shortest of the common running event distances, consisting of 3.1 miles (5 kilometers).  These events can either be competitive or social, depending on the particular event you are looking into running.  5Ks are the most popular of road running events because of their relatively short distance which allows not only the seasoned runners to run, but novice runners, joggers, and newcomers as well. Not just the 5K races in Illinois, but generally all 5Ks are something fun for families to do together.

    How did we choose the best 5k events in Illinois? 

    We checked what events runners looked for the most and we compared statistics on how many runners held interest in any given event. Feedback left by runners who participated in the course was also considered. Other factors include how long the course has been around, the bling and medals, what runners thought of them and how scenic the course is.

    What are the best 5Ks in the Chicago area?

    There are many to choose from here as the Chicago area is host to many 5k races throughout its many cities and communities. Some of these are charity events for fundraising, some fun runs, and other racing events but it all comes down to the runners.  Some of the notable 5k running events include Polar Dash 5k, Chicago 5k, Gospel Run and others.

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  • 10k races
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    About 10k races

    A 10k is one of the most common running event distances, consisting of 6.2 miles (10 kilometers). These events can either be competitive or more for fun, depending on the particular one you are looking into. They are twice the distance of the 5k and still relatively short in distance. Fewer runners tend to participate then the 5k, but these events still get a lot of not only seasoned runners but novice runners and joggers in attendance.

    How did we choose the best 10k races in Illinois? 

    We checked what events runners looked for the most and we compared statistics on how many runners held interest in any given event. Feedback left by runners who participated in the course was also considered. Other factors include how long the course has been around, the bling and medals, what runners thought of them and how scenic the course is.

    What are the best 10Ks in Illinois?

    There are many 10K races in Illinois to choose from! Some of these are charity events for fundraising, some fun runs, and other racing events but it all comes down to the runners.  Some of the notable 10k running events Frozen Gnome 10k, Chicago 10k and Run Mag Mile. These are just a few of the many available events.

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  • Half marathons
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    About Half marathons

    A Half Marathon event consists of running 13 miles (21 kilometers) and as the label suggests, is half of a standard Marathon which is a total of 26 miles. The popularity, participants of the half marathon distance and its events have significantly grown since the early 2000s and they continue to do so, with massive events popping up all over the states. The growth rate of participants for the half distance is currently higher than that of the full.

    How did we choose the best Half Marathon events in Illinois? 

    We checked what events runners looked for the most and we compared statistics on how many runners held interest in any given event. Feedback left by runners who participated in the course was also considered. Other factors include how long the course has been around, the bling and medals, what runners thought of them and how scenic the course is.

    What are the best Half Marathon events in Illinois?

    There are many popular half marathon events to choose from in Illinois.  Most are very flat and good for first-timers and those looking to set a PR.  Some of these are charity events for fundraising, some are fun runs, and others are racing events but it all comes down to the runners.

    A few of the more notable half marathons include the Fly with the Eagles Half Marathon, the Chicago Spring Half Marathon, and the Lincoln Presidential Half Marathon.  These are just a few of the great half marathons Illinois has to offer.

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  • Marathons
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    About Marathons

    Marathon events consist of 26 miles (42 kilometers) and the courses are typically laid out through roads. Starting in the Olympics in the early 1900s, marathons have quickly picked up in popularity and in 2017 there are currently more than 800 events being held, and that number is consistently growing.

    How did we choose the best Marathon events in Illinois? 

    We checked what events runners looked for the most and we compared statistics on how many runners held interest in any given event. Feedback left by runners who participated in the course was also considered. Other factors include how long the course has been around, the bling and medals, what runners thought of them and how scenic the course is.

    What are the best Marathon events in Illinois?

    There are several popular races in Illinois.  The most well-known marathon in Illinois is the Chicago Marathon, which is one of the World Marathon Majors.  Other notable marathons in Illinois include the Illinois Marathon, Road to Carthage Marathon and Fox Valley Marathon.  Illinois has plenty of marathons to choose from, most being flat and fast, great for first-timers or those looking for a PR or BQ.

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