What are my options for distance?

The Half Marathon starts at 7:00 AM CDT, which is the smart move if you want to beat the mid-morning humidity. The 5K follows at 7:45 AM, and there is a 1K for the kids at 7:30 AM. If you are looking for a serious challenge, the Half is the way to go; the 5K is more of a social jog for the local crowd.

How much am I going to pay?

The Half Marathon is $80, while the 5K is $40 and the 1K is $20. For a race that has historically raised over $100,000 for the fire department, these prices are very fair. Just a heads-up: if you want a guaranteed T-shirt, you must register by June 1, 2026. You can sign up via RunSignup ↗.

What should I expect regarding the weather?

Mid-June in Wisconsin can be a wildcard. You’ll likely face temperatures in the 60s or low 70s (F) at the start, but the sun will be up and the humidity will climb quickly. Lightweight, breathable gear is non-negotiable. Since the race ends early to accommodate a local parade, you'll be finishing before the absolute worst of the midday heat, but don't get complacent.

Will the course be difficult?

Expect typical small-town Wisconsin roads—paved, mostly flat, but with some gentle rollers that can catch you off guard if you're trying to hammer a PB. It’s a community-style route around Cottage Grove, likely utilizing park paths and streets. It's not a "fast" course for elites, but it's a pleasant one for steady effort.

Is there anything I need to watch out for on race day?

The biggest logistical constraint is the hard cutoff. Due to a local festival parade, all race support ends at 10:30 AM. If you are running a slow half marathon, you need to keep a steady pace to ensure you aren't caught out when the course transitions to parade mode. Also, note that there is no on-site paper registration; if you haven't registered online via RunSignup ↗, you aren't running.