Crazylegs Classic – Madison, WI 2026

Date
April 25, 2026
Location
Madison, WI
Venue
Library Mall
Start Time
10:00 AM
Entry Fee
$28.00 – $50.00
Events
8K Run, 2 Mile Walk, Fun and Fitness Team - 8K Run, Fun and Fitness Team - 2 Mile Walk
Includes
T-Shirt | T-Shirt and Crazylegs Classic Baseball Hat
View RegistrationOfficial Race Website

The Crazylegs Classic takes place on April 25, 2026, in Madison, Wisconsin, starting at Library Mall at 10:00 AM. The event offers two distance options: a 2-mile course and an 8K, accommodating both runners and walkers. Entry fees range from $28 to $50 depending on registration timing and options selected. This spring race provides a straightforward option for athletes looking to compete or participate at a comfortable effort level without traveling far from central Madison. The downtown venue location makes parking and logistics relatively accessible for participants and spectators.

From the Race Organizer
The last Saturday of April each spring, over 10,000 Badgers descend downtown State Street to kick off the Crazylegs Classic. Not surprisingly, the idea for this event was hatched in late 1981 by three Badger loyalists at a campus bar. The three, Tom Grantham, Ken Sparks, and Rich Backus, wanted to raise money to support UW Athletics. As admirers of then- Athletic Director Elroy Hirsch, they asked his permission to name it the "Crazylegs Run" in his honor. The first race in 1982 attracted 1,525 runners and raised $9,500. The event grew in popularity and the walk was added in 1987 with 676 walkers the first year. The event has grown substantially reaching a record high of 20,415 in 2010. Since the inaugural race 43 years ago, it has attracted over 354,000 runners and walkers. The Crazylegs Classic has become a time-honored tradition of the University of Wisconsin, as well as a much-anticipated event to kickoff spring in the Madison community. Register by March 23, 2026 to guarantee your

Hotels Near This Race

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Crazylegs Classic – Madison, WI 2026

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Race Travel Insurance

Don't forget travel insurance for April 25.

You've trained for months and booked a trip to Madison, WI. A pre-race injury, a delayed flight, or a family emergency can derail the whole thing. Travel insurance can help cover your race entry fee, hotel, and flights if you can't make it, and may cover medical costs if something goes wrong on the course. Plans typically only run 5-7% of your total trip cost — and running events are covered under standard plans with no additional coverage needed.

  • Trip cancellation up to 100% of prepaid costs
  • Running events covered under standard plans — no add-ons needed
  • Trip interruption up to 150% of non-refundable costs
  • Emergency medical up to $250,000
  • Cancel For Any Reason add-on available
  • 24/7 real-time support
Get a Quote — Faye Travel Insurance

Affiliate links — we may earn a commission at no cost to you. Coverage terms vary by state and plan. Review policy details before purchase.

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Frequently Asked Questions

When is Crazylegs Classic – Madison, WI 2026?

Crazylegs Classic – Madison, WI 2026 takes place on April 25, 2026. The race is held in Madison, Wisconsin.

Where is Crazylegs Classic – Madison, WI 2026 held?

Crazylegs Classic – Madison, WI 2026 is held at Library Mall in Madison, Wisconsin.

Where can I find hotels near Crazylegs Classic – Madison, WI 2026?

RaceHotelFinder shows hotels sorted by distance from the race venue in Madison. Use the map or list view on this page to compare options and book race weekend accommodation.