Magical Spring Half Marathons in the Midwest

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We know where the most people are running--and that's in middle America. So here's to a great road race season for those of us logging quiet miles along a country road. These hand-picked half marathons offer a mix of urban and scenic courses--all in America's heartland.
Hoosier Half Marathon
April 14, 2018 -- Bloomington, IN
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The Hoosier Half starts off at Indiana University's Bloomington campus, regularly voted one of the most beautiful in the country. Though the campus is mostly flat, the race features challenging hills in the outlying neighborhoods and has a time limit of 16 minutes per mile. All runners receive a finisher's medal and are encouraged to explore the charming college town post-race.
Naperville Women's Half
April 22, 2018 -- Naperville, IL
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On Sunday, April 22, 2018 the City of Naperville will play host to the newest community event for female runners of all ability levels with the 3rd Annual Naperville Women's Half Marathon and 5K presented by Naperville Running Company at Naperville Central College. This unique format, offered to women only, will again turn the streets of Naperville into a show of force as the fitness movement continues to expand because of their involvement.
Oshkosh Half Marathon
April 29, 2018 -- Oshkosh, WI
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The Oshkosh Half is in its 12th year and features some course diversity, with part of the race taking place downtown and other parts by the river. Proceeds from the event benefit local charities, including the Boys and Girls Club of Oshkosh, Christine Ann Domestic Abuse Service and the Oshkosh Area Humane Society.
Brookings Half Marathon
May 12, 2018 -- Brookings, SD
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A mostly flat course makes this race perfect for anyone set on beating their old PR. Half and full marathon runners begin together and follow the same scenic course which takes you through parks, historic districts and South Dakota University. The half marathon is limited to only 400 runners, and these spots are usually filled by mid-March, so make sure to register early.
2018 6th New Castle Mini Marathon
May 19, 2018 -- New Castle, IN
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The course of the community-supported Newcastle Mini Marathon takes you on bike trails, through parks and downtown before ending at the Henry County YMCA. Runners receive a participant shirt and a finisher's medal, and there's even popsicles at every aid station. All proceeds support the Henry County Special Olympics.
2018 Stony Creek Back to the Beach Half Marathon
May 20, 2018 -- Shelby Township, MI
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For 13.1 miles along a lake, with stunning views and no chance to get bored, go Back to the Beach in Michigan. The race course goes through Stony Creek Metropark next to Stony Creek Lake. Finisher's medals boast the "Sun Guy," who's become a mascot for the run. Runners call the race a hidden gem and say the energy is electric. Truly, this is a must-run.
Chardon Half Marathon
May 26, 2018 -- Chardon, OH
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This race is not only an amazing deal (it's currently only $55), but it's a hilly challenge that runners rave about. The course winds through beautiful wooded areas in Ohio and ends on the local high school football field. The small-town, family friendly feel makes the miles fun and easy.
2018 Lake Region Run
June 2, 2018--Fergus Falls, MN
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If you're a runner and you haven't been to Minnesota, you're missing out. Why not visit the land of lakes to check out The Lake Region Run half marathon? You'll be delighted by the beauty of the Fergus Falls area and the ideal temperatures in early June. Don't be scared off by the challenging hills of the half marathon course--they are well worth climbing.
Heartland Series
June 7, 2018 -- Clinton, IA
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This race is part of the greater Heartland series put on by Mainly Marathons, with similar runs in Ohio, Michigan, Indiana and Wisconsin. The Fulton race features an out-and-back course that runners loop eight times, with scenic parts along the east bank of the Mississippi River. Not overly competitive? This race is perfect for you as it has no time limits.
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