MARCH MADNESS HALF-MARATHON
Sunday, March 16, 2003, 9:30 a.m. - Cary, IL

What's this? The temperatures are supposed to be in the 50s on Sunday? It can't be - not when they're running the March Madness Half-Marathon.

Historically known for terrible weather and a course marked by large hills, the March Madness Half-Marathon in northwest suburban Cary, IL is definitely an event to conquer. Although the race always proves to be a tough event, runners keep flocking back year after year in what event directors refer to as "almost a cult following." It is so popular, the field of 1,000 is filled for this year. No more registration is being taken. There will be NO race day registration.

Defending champions are Dan Mayer of Naperville, who ran 1:08:51 in 2002, and Gloria Iverson of Lincolnwood, who clocked 1:21:54. Last year's event featured rain, sleet, a bit of snow and strong winds. It was just what was needed to keep the March Madness mystique intact.

This CARA-registered race comes early in the year and promises to be a good tune-up for Boston or other spring marathons.

For more information, visit www.hillstriders.com, or contact Mark Francis at 815-477-9165, or by e-mail at davide@owc.net.