Madder Than A Wet Hen 5K
Ready to trade your wool socks for water shoes? The Madder than a Wet Hen 5K is your chance to run the river and roast in the summer sun — a wild mid-year counterpart to February’s frigid Frozen Cock’s Crow 5K. Same gnarly course, but this time you’ll swap frostbite for sunburn as you take on heat, hills, and the Embarras River itself.
Course
The 5K course is a summertime version of the back half of the Frozen Cock’s Crow course — only this time, it’s all about frying instead of freezing. Expect approximately 1,100 feet of elevation gain packed into this short and spicy race. You’ll kick things off on winding forest trails before hitting the most talked-about stretch: a one-third mile slog straight down the middle of the Embarras River. In July, the river runs shallow — ankle to knee deep — exposing sandy bars and rocky riffles. You’ll be wet, wild, and grinning (or cussing) as you splash your way downstream. But don’t think it gets any easier after the river. The infamous Billy Goat Hill awaits near the finish line — a steep, punchy climb that will test your legs and your grit. Cross the line knowing you’ve earned every pancake and scoop of ice cream waiting for you.
Runner Experience
Community vibe? Off the charts. With a field limited to 125 participants, the Madder than a Wet Hen 5K keeps it intimate, quirky, and full of trail-running camaraderie. Runners return year after year for the river running, rowdy fun, and the epic post-race party featuring pancakes, ice cream, and plenty of war stories. Expect high fives, friendly faces, and an atmosphere that’s more summer camp than serious race.
Registration & Logistics
Registration is limited — only 125 spots available — and this race typically fills up fast thanks to its unique river course and legendary afterparty. Sign up early to guarantee your spot and bring shoes you don’t mind getting soaked and sandy. Lodging is available nearby in Charleston, IL, and the race start is easily accessible by car. Plan for hot weather — hydration and sun protection are key.
On-site Lodging
- Primitive: Tent camping is primitive wherever they can find a space. If camping, you have to be set up by dark. ($10 add-on, purchase through registration or on store page)
- Glamping! (Book through Airbnb)
- Riverfront Oasis A-frame
- Wooded Bliss A-frame
- Little Guy Max Getaway
porta potties and an outdoor shower available for all campers.
About Willenborg Woods
At Willenborg Woods, our mission goes beyond just hosting races. We're dedicated to providing a relaxed and fun environment where everyone can experience the joy of being in the woods. We build and maintain all trails on our property with love and care, creating an inclusive space where nature and community come together. Our races embody our core beliefs: Trail running should be challenging but fun, Everyone deserves to experience the magic of the woods, Community matters as much as competition, Family (including spectators) is an essential part of the trail party.
