Embark on an unforgettable 5-day, 500-mile cycling journey through Illinois as part of the Gold Star 500 ride, set to take place from September 23 to September 27, 2025. This annual event honors fallen military service members from Illinois and aims to preserve their legacies for future generations. The route begins in Springfield and winds its way through historic towns like Gibson City, Paris, Flora, Pickneyville, culminating in Litchfield. Along the journey, cyclists will encounter numerous communities that come together to share stories of sacrifice and heroism. Each day brings new challenges as you pedal across diverse landscapes, from rolling hills to flat farmlands, connecting with families who have lost loved ones while serving their country. In addition to the full 500-mile challenge, there are options for shorter rides spanning one or three days. These routes still offer a meaningful experience and provide an opportunity to participate in honoring our fallen heroes without committing to the entire distance. The event raises funds through registration fees, sponsorships, individual donations, and grants. All proceeds go towards funding scholarships and Fallen Hero History Project Videos that document and celebrate the lives of Illinois' military service members who made the ultimate sacrifice for their nation. Join a dedicated community of cyclists committed to preserving the memories and legacies of fallen heroes while supporting initiatives like education scholarships for family members left behind. This ride is more than just cycling; it's a powerful tribute to those who have served, ensuring their stories live on through the efforts of this all-volunteer organization. For a glimpse into what makes the Gold Star 500 so special, watch footage from previous events at https://www.dropbox.com/s/rj415bg4wjnt5z5/gsm%20-%20peoria%20welcome%20%2810.2.19%29.mov?dl=0. Visit www.goldstarmission.org to learn more and join the mission of honoring our fallen heroes through cycling. Experience a unique blend of physical challenge, community support, and heartfelt remembrance as you pedal your way across Illinois in honor of those who have served their country with unwavering dedication.
Races Offered
2026 Virtual Gold Star 500
May 30, 2026
straighten
Distance —
500 Miles
terrain
Type —
Cycling,
Others
timer
00:01
sell
$60.00
2026 General Logan 200 Gold Star Family Volunteer
Jun 26, 2026
straighten
Distance —
2026 General Logan 200 Gold Star Family Volunteer
terrain
Type —
Cycling,
Others
timer
04:00
sell
$0.00
2026 General Logan 200 Volunteer
Jun 26, 2026
straighten
Distance —
2026 General Logan 200 Volunteer
terrain
Type —
Cycling,
Others
timer
16:00
sell
$0.00
2026 10th Annual General Logan 200
Jun 26, 2026
straighten
Distance —
200 Miles
terrain
Type —
Cycling,
Others
timer
22:00
sell
$200.00
2026 10th Annual Gold Star 500
Sep 22, 2026
straighten
Distance —
500 Miles
terrain
Type —
Cycling,
Others
timer
00:00
sell
$450.00
2026 GS 500 1-Day/100 Mile Ride (22 Sep)
Sep 22, 2026
straighten
Distance —
99 Miles
terrain
Type —
Cycling,
Others
timer
06:00
sell
$150.00
2026 GS 500 3-day/300 mile Ride (22-24 Sep)
Sep 22, 2026
straighten
Distance —
300 Miles
terrain
Type —
Cycling,
Others
timer
06:00
sell
$300.00
2026 Gold Star 500 Gold Star Family Volunteer
Sep 22, 2026
straighten
Distance —
500 Miles
terrain
Type —
Cycling,
Others
timer
06:00
sell
$0.00
2026 Gold Star 500 Volunteer
Sep 22, 2026
straighten
Distance —
2026 Gold Star 500 Volunteer
terrain
Type —
Cycling,
Others
timer
08:00
sell
$0.00
2026 GS 500 1-Day/100 Mile Ride (23 Sep)
Sep 23, 2026
straighten
Distance —
90 Miles
terrain
Type —
Cycling,
Others
timer
06:00
sell
$150.00
2026 GS 500 1-Day/100 Mile Ride (24 Sep)
Sep 24, 2026
straighten
Distance —
104 Miles
terrain
Type —
Cycling,
Others
timer
06:00
sell
$150.00
2026 GS 500 3-day/300 mile Ride (24-26 Sep)
Sep 24, 2026
straighten
Distance —
300 Miles
terrain
Type —
Cycling,
Others
timer
06:00
sell
$300.00
2026 GS 500 1-Day/100 Mile Ride (25 Sep)
Sep 25, 2026
straighten
Distance —
108 Miles
terrain
Type —
Cycling,
Others
timer
06:00
sell
$150.00
2026 GS 500 1-Day/100 Mile Ride (26 Sep)
Sep 26, 2026
straighten
Distance —
109 Miles
terrain
Type —
Cycling,
Others
timer
06:00
sell
$150.00
Gravel Ride 11 Miler
Jun 13, 2027
straighten
Distance —
17.7K
terrain
Type —
Cycling,
Others
timer
309 days remaining
sell
$0.00
Gravel Ride 20 Miler
Jun 13, 2027
straighten
Distance —
32.2K
terrain
Type —
Cycling,
Others
timer
309 days remaining
sell
$0.00
Gravel Ride 30 Miler
Jun 13, 2027
straighten
Distance —
48.3K
terrain
Type —
Cycling,
Others
timer
309 days remaining
sell
$0.00
Weather History
These values represent the 3-year monthly averages for June in Easton.
thermostatTemperature
13.0° / 24.2°
wb_sunnyFeels like
10.8° / 22.4°
light_mode
Avg sunshine hours
11h 18m
water_drop
Avg rainfall
2.5 mm
ac_unit
Avg snowfall
—
air
Avg wind speed
11.9 km/h (Light breeze)
opacity
Sweat loss rate
Moderate
terrain
Course conditions
Firm and slightly soft
sunny
Max UV Index
High (6.0)
humidity_mid
Humidity
64.3%
wb_twilight
Sunrise
05:42
nightlight
Sunset
20:06
About Easton
Learn more about the host city, Easton.
Springfield is a city in the center of the state of Illinois. It is the state's capital — not Chicago — and the county seat of Sangamon County. Springfield is best known for its most famous resident, Abraham Lincoln, and there are several historic sites that are dedicated to him.
