Batavia finalizes plans for half-marathon

Batavia will be the site of a new half-marathon race this year.

The city council approved plans and a route Monday for the 13.1-mile "Half Madness" race on Aug. 31.

The race will be hosted by MultiSport Madness, a group of Kane County triathletes.

"There's a big need for a half-marathon in the western suburbs," said group member Danny Delgado of St. Charles.

Experienced runners looking to warm up for the Chicago or other full marathons and less experienced runners looking for a challenge can participate, he said.

The group expects about 1,000 people to run.

The race will last from roughly 7:30 to 10:30 a.m., and the route will cover parts of the east and west sides of town, said Alderman Jim Volk. Some road closures will be necessary, but shouldn't last long, he said.

The council also approved a smaller course for the "Batavia Criterion" bicycle race on May 26, hosted by Prairie Path Cycles.

Both events will donate money to charities, pay for any police traffic patrol they need and bring new people to town, Volk said.

"I'm very excited about what I feel is a real strong energy and synergy with all the events we're having downtown this year," said Mayor Jeff Schielke.

The cost for the half-marathon will be $45 for each runner, and there will be prizes for the top three male and female finishers.

For more information on the race, go to www.halfmadness.com.