Runners can tour the state of Illinois with the new I-74 Challenge, launched via a new partnership between Christie Clinic Illinois Race Weekend, Steamboat Classic, and the TBK Bank Quad Cities Marathon.
The I-74 Challenge allows runners to complete three Midwestern race weekends in a calendar year. In recognition of their journey, they will receive an additional finisher award in the form of a commemorative coaster featuring the challenge logo. Those interested can register with each individual event, or opt to sign up for all three events in a single transaction on a dedicated registration page.
There is no additional cost to take part in the I-74 Challenge. Runners can choose any distance offered at the events, allowing for a customisable experience for runners of all levels and abilities.
The I-74 Challenge finisher award will be given at the TBK Bank Quad Cities Marathon Weekend, which is the final race of the challenge. The challenge officially kicks off this year, and runners must complete one event from each of the 2026 race weekends to be eligible.
The road trip starts at Christie Clinic Illinois Race Weekend in Champaign Urbana and Savoy, IL, on April 23–25, 2026. This event features a one-mile, 5km, 10km, half marathon, full marathon, youth run and multi-event challenges.
Next up, participants will head to Peoria, IL, for a four-mile race and 15km event option at the Steamboat Classic on June 6, 2026.
Their last stop will be Moline, IL, at the TBK Bank Quad Cities Marathon on September 26–27, 2026. This weekend features a one-mile, 5km, 10km, half marathon, full marathon, five-person relay and Kids Micro-Marathon.
The Christie Clinic Illinois Race Weekend is an annual running event that takes participants through the streets of Champaign-Urbana and Savoy, IL. The event has drawn over 15,000 runners in past years and remains committed to fostering a healthy community in central Illinois.
The Steamboat Classic has been held for over 50 years. The road race in Peoria, IL, is open to participants of all ability levels.
The TBK Bank Quad Cities Marathon has been held since 1998. The event covers courses through four cities, over three bridges, in two states, and one island, all within view of the Mississippi River. The event draws runners from across the United States on the fourth week of September.
Jan Seeley, Race Director of Christie Clinic Illinois Race Weekend, said “Along Interstate 74, you’ll find some of the most beloved and well-produced running events in the country, and we’re excited to partner with our friends and endurance event colleagues for this new challenge. As participation in running events surges, we hope the I-74 Challenge will help runners discover new events and be rewarded for their continued support of our races.”
Adam White, Race Director of the Steamboat Classic, said “Having the opportunity to offer the I-74 Challenge along the sides of Christie Clinic Illinois Race Weekend and the TBK Quad Cities Marathon is an absolute honour. This stretch of interstate already provides the running and walking community with three amazing events. Being able to tie them all together in the I-74 Challenge will give participants an opportunity to celebrate their accomplishments with new and additional memories to last a lifetime.”
Joe Moreno, Race Director of the TBK Bank Quad Cities Marathon, said “The I-74 Challenge brings together three iconic events that span the state of Illinois. In the Quad Cities, we are huge fans of both Christie Clinic Illinois Race Weekend and the Steamboat Classic. We can’t wait to welcome their participants to the QC in September to complete the challenge.”
