FAQ

Where do the Fox Valley Marathon Races take place?

The race start in St Charles IL is due west of Chicago and is convenient from Chicago O’Hare, Chicago Midway, or Rockford airports.

Is this race a Boston Qualifier?

Yes, the Fox Valley Marathon is a Boston Qualifier.. The course and race size and timing make it an ideal candidate for those looking to get into Boston. Boston hopefuls, be sure to check out the nation’s best Boston Qualifier (Last Chance BQ.2) one week earlier, starting in the neighboring town of Geneva and sharing some of the Fox Valley Marathon course.

Is the course flat?

The course is gentle. Anyone from outside Illinois (or Florida) would call it flat. It does have some small rollers in mile 12 (marathon and 20) and 19 (marathon) but these are neither long nor high and many runners prefer the variation to a completely flat marathon.

Is this a good race for first-timers?

The course, the no-hassle start, and our summer course preview runs make it ideal for first timers, taking much of the anxiety out of your first half or full. And a half / full combination means that regardless of you half pace, you will finish in the of the action ahead of most marathoners.

What is the minimum age to participate in the Fox Valley Marathon Races?

Runners must be 18 years of age or older to participate in distances 13.1 or longer. Runners must be 6+ to participate in the Fox Valley 5K.

Is there a time cutoff?

Yes, we have to re-open the roads to allow for traffic, so runners must keep a 13:45 per mile pace (3 hour half marathon, 6 hour marathon) for distances 13.1 or longer. This is strictly enforced for the marathon and for the first 5 miles of all races, before the course moves to the path. 5K runners must keep a 20 minute/mile pace or faster.

Do you give finisher medals and awards?

Our runners can walk away with a lot of bling, including finisher medals, multi-year medals, and age group awards for the top 10% of finishers in each age group.

Do you offer race shirts?

Yes, our long sleeve gender specific shirts are runner favorites and can be seen all over Chicagoland and at races around the country. Race shirts are included with your registration, while supplies last.

How many water stations are on the course?

Water stations are located along all 13.1+ courses. Water, Gatorade, port-a-potties, and helpful, smiling volunteers will be at each one. Gels will be available at mile 14 and 21 stations. Medical staff will be at select water stations. There are 6 stations along the half, 12 stations along the 20, and 15 stations along the full marathon course.

When is packet pickup?

For your convenience, packet pickup is available Friday and Saturday before the race at the race in St. Charles. Race day options are available, but restrictions and fees may apply and must be selected online. Learn more.

Can a friend pick up my packet?

Yes, with a copy of your ID with Date of Birth. For pre-registered race morning packet pickup, only the runner can pick up the packet.

Do you offer transfers or refunds?

We offer deferrals (see below), but no transfers or refunds.

Do you offer a virtual option?

Yes, restrictions apply. See our races page for details.

Do you offer a race deferral option?

Yes! Learn more about our Race Deferral Option here.

Can I switch my race distance?

Any registered runner can drop down to a lower distance during the race and still be an official finisher, as well as keep their Endurance streak intact! Our timing company will see your distance run and adjust official results accordingly once you finish. Since you can up your race distance up until 7/31, you have plenty of options to choose what’s right for you. Learn more about the Switch your Distance option.

Do you have a wheel chair division?

No. The course has gravel and narrow points and curbs that are not conducive to wheelchairs. A large part of the course is on a trail.

Are guide runners permitted?

Yes, for runners with challenges as recognized by USA Track and Field. Contact us at info@fv26.com by 08/01 to insure your Guide Bibs will be available on race day.

Are service animals permitted?

Service animals only are permitted to accompany their owners. Out of respect to other runners, some of who may be nervous around animals, we request that runners with service animals start at the back of the start corral. There is no need to buy an entry for your animal. The race is for people only. Our volunteers and medical teams are not equipped to handle animal behavior or emergencies.