Rend Lake Marathon
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Event details
The Rend Lake Marathon takes place on Saturday, March 28, 2026, in Barren township, IL. The event center is North Marcum Beach. The marathon course is USATF certified. Packet pickup is available Friday, March 27 at Seasons Restaurant at Rend Lake Golf Course (12476 Golf Course Rd, Whittington, IL) from 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm, and there is packet pickup at North Marcum Beach on race day. Race shirts are guaranteed for entries made by March 11, 2026. Each race has its own finisher medal; the medals include a magnetic side so they can connect. Awards are distributed as participants finish.
- Marathon, Price $115
- 1/2 Marathon, Price $80
- 1/4 Marathon, Price $50
Registration for the marathon and half marathon closes March 27, 2026. Registration for the quarter marathon closes March 28, 2026. Seasons Lodge and Condominiums at Rend Lake Golf Course offers a 10% lodging discount for the race weekend when participants mention the event.
Course and support
The route uses paved paths, a bike path, and country roads. It crosses the lake area and passes South Sandusky Beach, the marina, the Rend Lake Visitors Center, the spillway, Lake Hamilton, and Lake Benton before returning to North Marcum Beach. Aid stations are located at Barren Township Hall (Marathon 4.6 miles), Near Loon Ln (M 8.2 miles), Rend City Parking Lot (M 11.69 miles, gel fuel), Dam Rd (M/H 15.13 miles), Petroff & Duquion (M/H 17.94 miles), Lake Shore Drive (M/H 21.73 miles), and Franklin Cemetary (M/H/Q 23.78 miles). Water, Gatorade Endurance, and a porta john are available at each aid station. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.