Naperville Marathon Fees Cut After Complaints

The people spoke (er, typed) and the Naperville Marathon listened.

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After being flooded with hundreds of complaints via social media, the Inaugural Naperville Marathon, which takes place Nov. 10, decided to cut registration fees for the race.

Registration is now $105 for the marathon and $75 for the half marathon. Runners can sign-up online at naperville26.com beginning Monday, Jan. 28 at 6 a.m. Fees increase after Feb. 28. 

Originally, registration fees were $150 for the 26.2-mile marathon and $115 for the 13.1-mile half marathon. However, the marathon's Facebook page was flooded with comments from runners who said prices were too high, especially for an inaugural race. 

"I cannot justify paying $115 for an inaugural ½ marathon. It is very disappointing because I was really looking forward to this race," Vera said on the marathon's Facebook page.

Another woman said, "I was planning on flying in from Colorado for this race but I can't pay $150 just for the race and then still a plane ticket. I was excited about doing this as my first marathon but now I'm not going to sign up."

Fortunately for runners, race director Bob Hackett gathered all the feedback, tweaked some things and was able to lower registration fees.

"What we are attempting to provide to you the runner, the City of Naperville and all of the volunteers is a First Class Event that provides a great course, great amenities, and give a great town its due in the world of running," Hackett posted on Facebook. "Your feedback helps us, and trust me I read every comment."

Hackett announced on Thursday morning that prices would be cut in order to accommodate runners.

"We would truly like to thank the runners who have sent us their well thought out input with the sincere intention of helping us produce the best quality marathon at a price that they can afford," he wrote.

Some of the changes made include the removal of a professional photo package for runners within the entry fee and a price drop for running shirts.

"These two issues seemed to be bothering runners the most, and did cause entry fees to be higher," Hackett said on Facebook.

While the course is still being finalized, the marathon is set to start and finish south of the Riverwalk in downtown Naperville and will be run on roads and forest preserve trails in a large loop.

The Naperville Marathon will be a qualifying race for the Boston Marathon. Race organizers are also looking for volunteers to serve as coordinators.

Registration for the Naperville Marathon and half marathon will open on Monday, Jan. 28, at 6 a.m.

For more information and details, visit www.naperville26.com.