The Hennepin Hundred, Illinois’ premier ultramarathon adventure, offers runners an unparalleled journey along the historic and picturesque Hennepin Canal State Trail. This point-to-point race spans from Sterling to Colona, covering 104 miles of flat terrain that is both fast-paced and scenic. ### Race Details - Distance Options: The event features a challenging 100-mile course as well as 50-mile and 50k options. - Start Times: - For the full marathon distance, morning buses depart at 5:10 am from Colona Fire Department for runners heading to Sterling. - A bus service is also available for the half-marathon route starting at Lock 17 at 5:10 am sharp. - Volunteer Incentives: Aid station captains can earn a $200 credit towards future Ornery Mule Racing events, and volunteers receive a $10 credit per shift. Both groups are eligible to attend the annual VIP Volunteer party. ### Race Day Experience The race is known for its meticulously organized aid stations placed every 3-7 miles along the trail. These stations offer essential supplies as well as moments of respite amidst stunning views of autumn cornfields, historic locks and lift bridges, picturesque farms, and charming towns dotting northwest Illinois’s landscape. ### Prizes & Swag Upon crossing the finish line: - 100 Mile Runners: Receive a custom buckle, Hennepin Finisher Flannel shirt, race bag filled with small gifts, and an exclusive "Ultra Virgin No more" cherry pop shirt for first-time participants. - 50 Mile and 50k Runners: Earn finish medals along with the same swag pack as their longer-distance counterparts. - Awards Ceremony: Beautifully designed awards are presented to top male and female runners in all categories, alongside artistic age group prizes. ### Early Bird Pricing Early registration offers significant discounts: - $315.00 for 100 miles (until January 1st) - $155.00 for the 50-mile distance - $110.00 for the 50k run ### Volunteer Opportunities and Rollover Policy Volunteers play a crucial role in making this event possible, with incentives such as race credits and exclusive invitations to events. For those needing to defer their entry: - A full rollover is available if you notify us by 70 days before the event. - Alternatively, receive a 50% credit towards future races until 25 days prior. ### Communication Stay connected through email updates from Ornery Mule Racing. Ensure these messages don’t end up in your spam folder to stay informed about race day logistics and special instructions. Join us for an unforgettable adventure along Illinois’ longest multi-use trail, where every step is a testament to the spirit of ultramarathon runners.
Races Offered
100 Miler
Oct 03, 2026
straighten
Distance —
160.9K
terrain
Type —
Running
timer
07:00
sell
$375.00
100 mile team relay
Oct 03, 2026
straighten
Distance —
160.9K
terrain
Type —
Running
timer
07:00
sell
$550.00
50 Miler
Oct 03, 2026
straighten
Distance —
80.5K
terrain
Type —
Running
timer
07:00
sell
$185.00
50K
Oct 03, 2026
straighten
Distance —
50K
terrain
Type —
Running
timer
17:00
sell
$160.00
50K
Oct 03, 2026
straighten
Distance —
50K
terrain
Type —
Running
timer
17:00
sell
$165.00
Weather History
These values represent the 3-year monthly averages for October in Sterling.
thermostatTemperature
9.0° / 19.1°
wb_sunnyFeels like
5.6° / 15.6°
light_mode
Avg sunshine hours
8h 54m
water_drop
Avg rainfall
2.1 mm
ac_unit
Avg snowfall
—
air
Avg wind speed
14.4 km/h (Gentle breeze)
opacity
Sweat loss rate
Low
terrain
Course conditions
Firm and slightly soft
sunny
Max UV Index
Moderate (4.0)
humidity_mid
Humidity
63.8%
wb_twilight
Sunrise
07:12
nightlight
Sunset
18:16
About Sterling
Learn more about the host city, Sterling.
Sterling is a city in Whiteside County, Illinois, United States, along the Rock River. The population was 14,782 at the 2020 census, down from 15,370 in 2010. Formerly nicknamed "Hardware Capital of the World", the city has long been associated with manufacturing and the steel industry.