Written by: Kimberly Eberl
Posted: Thursday, 27 March 2008
Page 4 of 5
Illinois
Chicagoans know the most popular races like the Shamrock Shuffle, Accenture Chicago Triathlon and Bank of America Chicago Marathon in the city by heart. No hotel reservations are needed for these popular courses, where a CTA card or parking pass can get you to the starting line. A road trip can uncover new areas in the Land of Lincoln with fewer potholes, traffic signs and congested paths for your weary running soles.
You can have an intense challenge within the Illinois border by traveling to Galena, for a very popular, early season triathlon known as the Galena Triathlon/ Duathlon (www.galena.org/triathlon) on May 18. The race has been named as a “Top 10” sprint triathlon in the United States by USA Triathlon based on its course, scenery, organization, and participants. This race is known for its tumultuous weather and killer hills, especially for early in the season.
“Come prepared for warm or cold weather and scenery that can’t be beat in Illinois,” said Brandon Elliott of Chicago, a frequent competitor. Many participants and families stay at B&B's or cabins, both of which can be had if you book early. Check in to Amber Creek Lodges (www.ambercreek.com) for the best of both worlds: small cabin feel, with large hotel convenience and service. Rooms can be had with as few as a single bed, or as large as 6+ bedrooms to accommodate more than 12 people. Galena is also noted by travelgator.com for being a “beautiful little river town.”
In our state capital of Springfield, the Lincoln Memorial Half Marathon (www.runabe.com) on April 5, runs through history and past some of the most significant Abraham Lincoln sites in the nation. Carbo loading in Springfield is best with their famous “horseshoe” sandwich, an open faced sandwich with French fries and a secret cheese sauce sitting on top of thick hamburger meat. This local tradition, with its artery-clogging ingredients, is not often found outside Springfield. Thankfully.
In Rockford, runners and walkers will flock to the 24th annual OSF Heritage Run on Sunday, April 27. The run is one of the oldest long-standing races held in Rockford and includes a 10 kilometer (6.2 mile) race, a two-mile run, a two-mile family walk and a kids’ half-mile fun run. The Rockford Marathon starts a new tradition when it kicks off this year on May 18. www.rockfordmarathon.com
Also in Rockford September 20 is the YMCA of Rock River Valley’s 7th Annual Rock the Race. This 8 hour or 4 hour adventure race is designed to challenge both novice and experienced racers and journeys through the Winnebago County Forest Preserves. Teams of 2-4 race in co-ed, or non co-ed divisions, plotting a course utilizing multiple disciplines. A new high school division has been added this year. The open format race includes biking, canoeing, trekking, orienteering skills, ropes section and mystery events.
What's the appeal of endurance sports? It's hard to say, but it's easy to see that more and more athletes are getting hooked on 24-hour bike rides, ultraruns and any other way they can get an endurance fix. 
