Half Day at the Lake

Half Day at the Lake : event overview

Half Day at the Lake is the third annual timed running event held in Evanston, Illinois, using a 2-mile loop along the lakefront and the Northwestern University campus near Centennial Park at 1800 Sheridan Road. The event includes two timed formats: a 12 hour race and a 6 hour race run on the same loop. The organizer positions the event as an option for ultrarunners seeking a training race as well as runners aiming to complete an introductory ultra-distance effort.

The course runs on a shared paved path with opportunities to run on the grass beside the path for much of the route. The path is used by walkers, runners, and bicyclists; the event is approved by the city of Evanston and Northwestern University so no other events use the path on race day. The route includes multiple public water fountains and public restrooms in addition to aid stations.

Two aid stations are provided: a main station at the start/finish offering snacks, Gatorade drinks, and hot noodles and broth, and a smaller station on the north loop offering snacks and water. Finishers receive a canned Hop2o nonalcoholic beverage supplied by a local brewery and a hand-crafted finisher award. Free parking options are available nearby at the NU Lakeside Parking Structure and on nearby residential streets; signs and local parking rules should be observed. The event is directed by an RRCA certified race director. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.