The Run for Heroes half marathon begins at 8:00 AM CDT from Vienna City Park on the scenic Tunnel Hill Trail in Vienna, IL. Organized by Revive Vienna in partnership with the VFW Auxiliary Post 5222, this event benefits local veterans and community causes.
The half marathon follows a certified out-and-back paved trail, starting and ending near the depot museum. The course is fast and flat, ideal for PR chases or relaxed pacing, with SAG stations offering drinks and snacks approximately every few miles . The run shares the trail with 5K and 10K participants, creating a welcoming, inclusive atmosphere.
Expect live music (Vienna High School Tech Team), local vendors like Tropical Sno and Chewy’s, and food trucks post-race for a festive community celebration. Packet pickup is convenient—Friday evening at the Historic Depot and race morning at 7:00 AM—making for seamless logistics .
What makes this race special is its community-first feel, veteran-focused mission, and family-friendly components—like a free kids’ mile at 11:00 AM and concurrent Tour de Tunnel bike ride at 9:00 AM. While its inaugural half field remains modest (< 100 runners), participants applaud its well-paced trail, group energy, and meaningful cause.
Why You’ll Love It
- Purposeful running: Veteran‑focused day with proceeds benefiting local heroes.
- Springtime trail: Pleasant, wooded out-and-back on a flat paved surface.
- Small-town charm: Music, food, bike ride, and kids’ fun run create festive community feel.
- All-level access: SAG support, chip timing, and relaxed pacing options.
- Local impact: Revives community pride and engagement in Vienna and beyond.
