Date
Saturday, October 10, 2026
Time
Race starts promptly at 8:30 AM. Plan to arrive 15-30 minutes early.
Location
The Recreation and Athletic Center
2171 University Drive
Springfield, IL 626703
Description
Join us for the 11th Annual UIS Prairie Stars 5K & 1 Mile Walk, presented by the Illinois Innocence Project! Choose between a chip-timed 5K run/walk or a family-friendly 1 Mile Walk through the beautiful UIS campus. Whether you're aiming for a personal best or enjoying an active morning with friends, family, and even your dog, there's an option for everyone. Take part in a morning of fitness, community, and fun while enjoying one of UIS's signature events.
New This Year: 1 Mile Walk
Presented By
The UIS Prairie Stars 5K & 1 Mile Walk is proudly presented by the Illinois Innocence Project as the organization celebrates 25 years of justice and advocacy.
For 25 years, the Illinois Innocence Project has worked to investigate credible claims of innocence and support efforts to prevent wrongful convictions. We are grateful for their partnership and support of this year's event.
| Affiliation | Early Bird (by sept 11) | Standard (Sept 11-19) | Day Of (Sept 20) |
|---|---|---|---|
| UIS Students | $10 | $15 | $20 |
| UIS Alumnni UIS Faculty/Staff Community | $25 | $30 | $35 |
Pancake Griddle Breakfast
Stick around after the race and celebrate with a delicious pancake griddle breakfast!
Race participants: Complimentary with registration.
Non-Participants: $8 meal ticket
Breakfast Opens: 8:45 AM
Save time on race day! Purchase $8 meal tickets for family members, friends, and spectators during registration to skip the ticket purchase line and head straight to breakfast. Meal tickets will also be available at the TRAC front desk on race day.
Packet Pick-Up
Participants can pick up their race packets ahead of time or on race day.
Where:
The Recreation and Athletic Center (Front Desk)
2171 University Drive
Springfield, IL 626703
When:
- Friday, October 9, 4-6 PM
- Saturday, October 10, 7:30-8:15 AM
Race Day Schedule
| Time | Activity |
|---|---|
| 7:30 AM | Check-in, Packet Pickup & Last-Minute Registration |
| 8:30 AM | 5K & 1 Mile Walk Start |
| 8:45 AM | Pancake Griddle Breakfast Opens |
| 9:30 AM | Awards & Door Prizes |
Race Contact Info
If you have any questions about this race or are interested in being a sponsor, please email jkill7@uis.edu.
2025 Supporting Sponsors
BUNN Gourmet
Portillo's
The Coop
Nothing Bundt Cakes
Gabatoni's
Meii Tea
Sunset Honey
Scheels
Amazing Xscapes
Cooper's Hawk
Club Car Wash
The Cats' Pyjamas
UIS Bookstore
M Nail Studio
LMNT
Monical's Pizza
Charlie Parker's
Cafe Moxo
Chatham Chiropractic
Orangetheory Fitness
Just Right Eating
Finley's Tap House
Supplement Superstores
Shake This Eat That
Mission BBQ
Powerworks Fitness
Smoothie King
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I walk the 5K?
Absolutely! Participants are welcome to walk, jog, or run the 5K. We also offer a non-competitive 1 Mile Walk for those looking for a shorter option.
Q: Is there an age limit for participants?
No! Participants of all ages are welcome! Children in strollers do not need to register, but all other participants must register to participate in the race.
Q: Will photos be available after the event?
Yes! All race photos will be posted on the Campus Recreation Facebook page after the event.
Q: Can I bring my dog or stroller?
Yes! Both are allowed as long as your dog is leashed and friendly.
Q: Are awards given for both events?
Awards are presented to overall winners and top finishers in the 5K. The 1 Mile Walk is a non-competitive event for participants of all ages and abilities.
Q: How do I find my race results?
Results will be posted on the doors immediately after the race. A digital copy will also be emailed to participants afterward.
Q: Will restrooms be available?
Yes! Restrooms will be available inside the Recreation and Athletic Center (TRAC), which is adjacent to the race area.
Department
Campus Recreation
