The Cross Country Sundown Showdown takes place at 120 N Greenbriar Rd in Carterville, Illinois, on July 17, 2026. This running event features a 1-mile distance and begins at 7:00 PM, making it an evening race option. Entry is $25.00. The one-mile format makes this race accessible for runners seeking a shorter, fast-paced effort or those looking to include a tune-up event in their training schedule.
From the Race Organizer
The 3rd Annual Cross Country Sundown Showdown July 16, 2027 REGISTRATION AND BIB PICKUP Carterville Community Center, 120 N Greebriar Rd, Carterville Friday, July 16, 2027 6:00 PM Shirt Deadline July 5, 2027 Race start and finish behind the Carterville Community Center Join us for the 3rd Annual Sundown Showdown 5K! Hosted by the River to River Runners, this unique event brings the excitement of a classic cross country meet to runners of all levels. The race will start and finish behind the Carterville Community Center, offering a fun and spectator-friendly atmosphere. Designed to resemble a traditional high school cross country meet, the Sundown Showdown uses standard XC scoring on a 5K course. This is primarily a team-based event, with teams consisting of 3 - 5 runners, and the top 3 runners scoring for each team. Teams will compete in three divisions: male, female, and mixed. Mixed teams must include at least two female runners among their five participants. Don’t have a full team? No problem...individual runners are welcome, and we’ll gladly help match you with others to form a team on race day. You can also choose to compete solo if you prefer. The course features a true cross country experience, with mostly grass terrain complemented by sections of gravel and paved path, making for a dynamic and enjoyable run. Whether you’re chasing a team title or just looking for a fun and competitive race atmosphere, the Sundown Showdown is a great way to experience cross country racing at its best. Awards: Medals will be presented to the top 25 male and female finishers, as well as awards for the top 3 teams in each division (Male, Female, and Mixed). Team Scoring: Team scores are calculated by adding the finishing positions of each team’s top three runners. Each runner earns points based on their place (1 point for 1st, 2 points for 2nd, etc.), and the team with the lowest total score is declared the winner. Teams may include 3–5 runners, but only the top three finishers will count toward the team score. Race Markings: Race will be marked with the following paint colors. Mile 1 - Red Mile 2 - White Mile 3 - Blue There will be a lead vehicle to guide the runners through the course.
Course & Travel Notes
The Cross Country Sundown Showdown takes place on July 16, 2027, in Carterville, Illinois, with the race starting at 7:30 PM at an elevation of 466 feet. Expect typical summer weather for mid-July with highs around 88°F and lows near 68°F, though there's about a 29% chance of measurable rain on any given day. The nearest airport is Veterans Airport of Southern Illinois (MWA), located just 4.4 miles from the venue, making it a convenient option for travel. Sunrise occurs at 5:47 AM on race day, well before the evening start time.
⛰️ 466 ft elevation☀️ Typically 88°F / 68°F · 29% chance of rain✈️ Veterans Airport of Southern Illinois (MWA) — 4.4 mi
Hotels Near This Race
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Cross Country Sundown Showdown 2027 — Carterville, IL
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Race Travel Insurance
Don't forget travel insurance for July 16.
You've trained for months and booked a trip to Carterville, IL.
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
When is Cross Country Sundown Showdown 2027 — Carterville, IL?
Cross Country Sundown Showdown 2027 — Carterville, IL takes place on July 16, 2027. The race is held in Carterville, Illinois.
Where is Cross Country Sundown Showdown 2027 — Carterville, IL held?
Cross Country Sundown Showdown 2027 — Carterville, IL is held at 120 N Greenbriar Rd in Carterville, Illinois.
Where can I find hotels near Cross Country Sundown Showdown 2027 — Carterville, IL?
RaceHotelFinder shows hotels sorted by distance from the race venue in Carterville. Use the map or list view on this page to compare options and book race weekend accommodation.
