FAQ
When is the race?
Both the marathon and half marathon will start at 7:00am CST on Saturday, May 7, 2011.
Where is Kenosha?
Kenosha is located on the Wisconsin/ Illinois border, on Lake Michigan. It is roughly a one hour drive from Chicago and a 50 minute drive from Milwaukee.
What does it cost to race?
You can find prices for both races CLICK HERE. Please note that the prices go up as we get closer to race day, so sign-up early.
Can I walk the marathon or half marathon?
Yes, but please be aware that the streets will only be closed off to accommodate those running 15 minute pace or faster. If you end up going slower than that pace, you may be moved to the sidewalks. Our course time limit for the full marathon is 6.5 hours, and if you are doing the half, you'll need to be on pace for 3:20.
Where/ when do I pick up my race packet?
Packet pick-up times for 2011 will be announced soon. We will have early pickups in Chicagoland and the Milwaukee area. Race weekend, we will have a Friday pick-up in Kenosha.
You may have a friend or family member pick-up your packet for you. They will need a copy of your ID to get your packet.
THERE IS NO PACKET PICK-UP ON RACE DAY!
Can I have a friend pick-up my race packet?
Yes! Save gas and make someone else go. Anyone can pick-up your packet. All they need is your name and a copy of your ID.
Can I qualify for the Boston Marathon by running in your race?
Yes! We are a USATF certified event, and therefore a Boston Qualifier.
(Our flat course is sure to help you reach your goal time.)
What about parking?
There is plenty of parking around downtown Kenosha on the streets and in lots.
Maps will be handed out at packet
pick-up. CLICK HERE for more details on parking.
What is the course like?
Past participants have called our course one of the most beautiful they have ever seen. Most of the course runs along Lake Michigan’s lakefront, and the path will take you through downtown Kenosha, area parks and beaches, and residential areas. We cap everything off with a stunning finish along Lake Michigan.
Is the course closed?
Technically yes, we have police and course marshals all over the course to keep it car free and keep everyone safe. However, please note that our course does go through some residential neighborhoods, and try and we might, it is impossible to keep everyone from pulling out of their driveways. We alert all residents well ahead of time, but please be alert, just in case.
Where will the aid stations be located?
We will have aid stations roughly every two miles. Each station will have water, Gatorade, port-a-potties, medical staff, and the best volunteers in the Midwest! There will also be a Hammer Gel station near Mile 17.
What is the All Cheese Corral?
This is a start area for anyone willing to don the dairy that makes Wisconsin famous. There is no time requirement or pre-registration required. If you would like to participate, all you have to do is arrive on race morning wearing some kind of cheese-themed apparel.
Will there be any course changes this year?
Nope, at this time, we plan on using the exact same route as 2010.
Will there be any on-course entertainment?
YES… CLICK HERE for more details.
Can I wear headphones while I run?
Yes, participants are allowed to wear headphones, but it is recommended that you keep the volume level low in order to hear any instructions by race officials or anything else that may be happening around you.
What is the post race party all about?
Our post-race event is open to all! Runners, spectators, family, friends, and community members are invited to stick around and enjoy plenty of food, drink, and plenty of polka music. All runners will receive a complimentary beer and brat, because, let’s face it, they deserve it.
Why do the marathon and half marathon runners get the same medal?
A couple people have asked why the medal only says “Wisconsin Marathon” on it. The reason is because that is the name of the event. The half marathon just happens to be part of the Wisconsin Marathon event. (We do cheat a little for the half marathoners, though. The ribbon does list both distances.) If we created different medals for both races, we would have to order them closer to race day (so we know an exact count of how many we would need); the later we order them, the more expensive they are, and the more it would cost you to run the race.
What if I got hurt and can’t run the race this year?
If you are unable to run, email Jonathan at jcain@mychicagoathlete.com and let him know. You will be mailed a $20 coupon for the 2012 event after race day. You can still get your teeshirt and goodie bag, but we do not offer refunds for any reason.
Are you all crazy?
Nope, we’re just cheesy!