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Marathon Details - JailBreak Marathon

North America Marathons > USA > WI > Wautoma > JailBreak Marathon

JailBreak Marathon

Waushara County Crimestoppers JailBreak Marathon & Half Marathon, 10K, 5K

Wautoma, WI USA

September 27, 2025

http://www.thejailbreakmarathon.com

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Race Details

A ChampionChip timed certified course. Fast and flat course through scenic Waushara County, this is truly Wisconsin's Premier Rural Marathon.

Contact Information

Name:	Norman Duesterhoeft
Address:	PO Box 961 Wautoma, WI 54982
Phone Number:	920-293-1312
Email:	Email the organizers

Runner Reviews (12)

Course 4.7

Organization 4.9

Spectators 2.9

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Number of comments: 12 [displaying comments 1 to 11]

More Comments: [ < 1 2 > ]

A. F. from Texas, US (3/9/2022) "Great small town marathon" (about: 2021) 11-50 previous marathons \| 1 JailBreak Marathon COURSE: 5 ORGANIZATION: 5 FANS: 4 I can't really say much bad about this event except it was seasonally warm but nothing one can do about the weather. As for the spectators, it's hard to have many plus this being a small town I don't expect much. Although there were a bunch of people cheering as you come into the finish. The course was flat. The after party food was nice. I enjoyed this event.
Rob Klein from Paradise, Michigan USA (10/1/2019) "A Rural Autumn Run" (about: 2019) 50+ previous marathons \| 1 JailBreak Marathon COURSE: 5 ORGANIZATION: 5 FANS: 3 This is now an Autumn run. Wautoma is a small town of about 2200 people, located about 45 minutes west of Oshkosh, and this marathon is sponsored by the county's Chamber of Commerce and Crime Stoppers. The theme was Jailbirds on the loose. Their logo was three guys in black and white stripes on the run, one with a ball and chain on one of his ankles. The RD, Norm, sent informational e-mails as the race approached, making sure that runners had the necessary information. They promoted an early start for those expected to run near or past 6 hours. That was nice, and I selected that option. When I arrived, it was still dark, and we had a physical address to go to, the fairgrounds were extremely dark. there was a woman by the gate who told us where to park and then where to go for check-in. It worked out okay. The start/finish line was near the door of the building where we checked in. Folks gathered there, and as the time approached, the early starters were all briefed and the timing folks got our numbers recorded. The course was roughly the shape of two triangles, and was a half-marathon distance that we had to run twice. After the first loop, we did a course reversal and ran the second loop in the opposite direction. The course was extremely well marked with signs and arrows - and in both directions too. There was plenty of hydration stations. Most had Gatorade and water; one station did not have Gatorade. A couple had gel. Most had fruit and potato chips. Post-race food was beef or turkey BBQ, potato salad, water and soda pop. Also, cupcakes and muffins were served. The course was mostly flat with some hills, but nothing too steep. It was a good course and the staff and volunteers did a great job.
andy colbert from oregon, il (5/2/2014) "small-town feel, yet big on organization" (about: 2014) 6-10 previous marathons \| 1 JailBreak Marathon COURSE: 4 ORGANIZATION: 5 FANS: 2 For me, this was a spur of the moment decision to run. A couple days beforehand, I found out I needed to travel 180 miles into Wisconsin for a family visit. While fiddling around on marathonguide.com, I discovered this particular marathon would be taking place only 15 miles away from where I would be staying. Normally a fall marathoner, I had some apprehension on entering; but the combination of being so close, low same day registration ($55), a rural course and positive reviews about the race got me to bite. Made the short drive over and easily registered without any wait. Very pleasant volunteers (gotta love that central Wisconsin hospitality) and low key affair overall. After running the fiasco that was the big city 2011 Las Vegas marathon, this type of marathon was quite relaxing and pleasant to be a part of. Pre-race offerings included bottled water, bananas, bagels and cream cheese. Entry fee also included high-quality long-sleeve running shirt. The course was just like I was used to training on in my neck of woods in rural northern Illinois. Every 2-3 miles, there were well-staffed water/sports drink/gel stations. I prefer running on the gravel shoulders and much of the course allowed for that. Just kind of a quaint, bucolic jog in the countryside. I'd rather run on a course like that instead of one with bunch of skyscrapers and spectators. Only thing I missed having was a clock on the course. Post-race meal was pure small-town Americana (real hot shredded roast beef, or turkey sandwich on white bun, canned corn and potato salad from a local supermarket). As a vegetarian, I gladly ate it all. Again, the servers (elderly men) couldn't have been nicer. Of the handful of marathons I have done, this was my favorite, as I felt extremely comfortable and relaxed. Another plus was meeting Boston-qualifying time for my age-group (55-59).
P. K. from Cincinnati, Ohio (5/1/2013) "Running for Andy and Barney" (about: 2013) 11-50 previous marathons \| 1 JailBreak Marathon COURSE: 5 ORGANIZATION: 5 FANS: 2 Friendly, rural, Mayberry-style marathon. I'm starting to like these smaller races more. They're more affordable, and they have a quaintness you don't get in the big guys. This one was on Saturday and raised proceeds for a local non-profit to fight crime. But Waushara County seems a quiet farm community, and a lot of the farmers are Amish, so... what crime?! There were only 70 participants for the full marathon, and it felt really weird standing in the front of the pack at the start. A local woman with a really sweet voice sang the national anthem. Then there was a nod to the Boston Marathon bombing victims. Also a Christian prayer, which was unusual, but I guess no big deal for Waushara County. The course was on rural roads through piney woods, small ponds and marshes, farmland. The day was very hot, and some of the non-shady stretches proved grueling. Water, Gatorade and gel stops every two miles. At mile 22 a pickup truck glided close and a big hand held out a full bottle of cold water, which I really needed at that point. The finish area was at a barn at the county fairgrounds and featured hot shredded roast beef or turkey sandwiches, potato salad, corn, soda. Great long-sleeved tech shirt and finishers medal (the ribbon is prison-garb black-and-white stripes!). The only drawbacks were minimal spectators and some lonely stretches of road. On the bright side, it's nice to occasionally run a peaceful race. I think I was the only out-of-stater, but I befriended some 'Wisconsonians' during the race - Mel, Bill, Andy, and Jessica - and they made it much more enjoyable than it otherwise might have been. Thanks to everyone for a pleasant time. Wisconsin's a beautiful state, so I plan to return once I conclude my 50-state quest!
B. E. from Wauwatosa, WI (5/5/2012) "Fantastic!" (about: 2012) 6-10 previous marathons \| 1 JailBreak Marathon COURSE: 5 ORGANIZATION: 5 FANS: 4 Of my 9 marathons so far, this was definitely one of my favorites! Even though there were less than 50 full-marathon finishers, the volunteers at the aide stations were enthusiastic and wonderful (while standing in the rain) - what more can you ask for really??! One-loop well-marked course with highly-visible personnel at all turns, Cytomax and Gu available frequently on the course, great swag (tech shirt, medal, water bottle and cinch-bag)... and a shiny new PR! It was a pretty great day! I will be back! Thanks!!
L. M. from Madison, WI (5/3/2012) "Great rural marathon" (about: 2012) 50+ previous marathons \| 1 JailBreak Marathon COURSE: 4 ORGANIZATION: 5 FANS: 3 This is a very well done event. It is a small event, but worth coming. AWESOME finish line food! So few marathons have good protein at the finish, so the succulent shredded hot beef and turkey sandwiches hit the spot. Nice aid stations, gu at most of them starting at mile 6 or so. Quality t-shirt, decent medal, beautiful Amish Countryside. The only complaint I would have would be the camber of the roads, but the roads were so quiet that this is the only race I've done that I felt very safe running toward the middle of the road.
K. C. from Sparta, WI (5/2/2012) "Great small rural marathon" (about: 2012) 11-50 previous marathons \| 1 JailBreak Marathon COURSE: 5 ORGANIZATION: 4 FANS: 3 If you love small marathons in rural settings you'll love this race. There are some nice small things that I really enjoyed about this race. Prior to the race several police and ems vehicles were there with sirens and lights flashing which I thought was a nice touch. One of the people who was going to run the marathon sang the national anthem, which I always think is cool. Course is entirely in the country and has what I would call rolling hills which are tough but not too tough. Nice to get out in the open country and enjoy all the smells good and bad. Even saw a few amish buggies go rolling by during the race! Course has 11ish water stations, I think each one of them had gu, gaterade and water. People and support staff at each of the stations were very encouraging and helpful!! Post race meal isn't amazing but is satisfactory. Weather was also just about perfect, if it hadn't rained. Bottomline, this is not Chicago or Boston, or New York but if you want a nice small race, where any proceeds go to a good cause I would recommend this race.
S. K. from Rancho Palos Verdes, CA (4/29/2012) "Great small town rural race! A definite must run." (about: 2012) 11-50 previous marathons \| 1 JailBreak Marathon COURSE: 5 ORGANIZATION: 5 FANS: 3 I ran this race as part of my quest to run a half marathon in all 50 states. What a wonderful race. The course was beautiful, well organized, aid stations every 3 miles, cool weather, mostly flat and well marked course. The medal and tech shirt were very nice, especially since it is such a small race. The volunteers were so kind, supportive and thanked the runners for coming out. Heck, even the traffic control police officers would thank you for running. The marathon leader even offered words of encouragement as he passed me on the course. Unheard of. I highly recommend anyone considering this race to sign up and do it. It beats any large race hands down!
b. m. from colorado springs, co (5/20/2011) "Fantastic Rural Marathon" (about: 2011) 11-50 previous marathons \| 1 JailBreak Marathon COURSE: 5 ORGANIZATION: 5 FANS: 3 This is an ideal marathon for a PR and a 50-stater. Gentle, rolling hills; perfect weather; great organization; early start; 1-loop course; and small field. In addition, I got a great shirt, medal and hot meal afterward. The race director is right there to answer questions, volunteers were so friendly, and aid stations were well stocked (although there were only 8 stations). My advice: bring some of your own fuel, enjoy the scenery, and run this race.
M. S. from Wisconsin (4/26/2010) "Great, cool, low-pressure marathon" (about: 2010) 11-50 previous marathons \| 1 JailBreak Marathon COURSE: 5 ORGANIZATION: 5 FANS: 3 The cool weather is great for a fast time. The course has some rolling parts, which help to vary your stride and speed to keep your legs fresh. Hills were never steep or long. The first two-thirds of the course runs through wind-breaking evergreen forests and the rest has some Amish farm areas. Green and beautiful with cranes calling. No spectators except hard-working, friendly folks at the stations. All miles marked with straw bales you can't miss. Only 8 rest stops, but it was 50 degrees and breezy, and most stops had energy gel, water, and sports drink. Very efficient organization, great meal, and awards were even given ahead of scheduled time. Only 36 marathoners, the little traffic and few spectators made it great to be able to focus and concentrate on the actual running of the race. No jostling or elbowing or worrying about speeding traffic - just a few horse droppings. This is not a mega-event marathon, but a great little race.

More Comments: [ < 1 2 > ]



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A. F. from Texas, US (3/9/2022) "Great small town marathon" (about: 2021) 11-50 previous marathons \| 1 JailBreak Marathon COURSE: 5 ORGANIZATION: 5 FANS: 4 I can't really say much bad about this event except it was seasonally warm but nothing one can do about the weather. As for the spectators, it's hard to have many plus this being a small town I don't expect much. Although there were a bunch of people cheering as you come into the finish. The course was flat. The after party food was nice. I enjoyed this event.
Rob Klein from Paradise, Michigan USA (10/1/2019) "A Rural Autumn Run" (about: 2019) 50+ previous marathons \| 1 JailBreak Marathon COURSE: 5 ORGANIZATION: 5 FANS: 3 This is now an Autumn run. Wautoma is a small town of about 2200 people, located about 45 minutes west of Oshkosh, and this marathon is sponsored by the county's Chamber of Commerce and Crime Stoppers. The theme was Jailbirds on the loose. Their logo was three guys in black and white stripes on the run, one with a ball and chain on one of his ankles. The RD, Norm, sent informational e-mails as the race approached, making sure that runners had the necessary information. They promoted an early start for those expected to run near or past 6 hours. That was nice, and I selected that option. When I arrived, it was still dark, and we had a physical address to go to, the fairgrounds were extremely dark. there was a woman by the gate who told us where to park and then where to go for check-in. It worked out okay. The start/finish line was near the door of the building where we checked in. Folks gathered there, and as the time approached, the early starters were all briefed and the timing folks got our numbers recorded. The course was roughly the shape of two triangles, and was a half-marathon distance that we had to run twice. After the first loop, we did a course reversal and ran the second loop in the opposite direction. The course was extremely well marked with signs and arrows - and in both directions too. There was plenty of hydration stations. Most had Gatorade and water; one station did not have Gatorade. A couple had gel. Most had fruit and potato chips. Post-race food was beef or turkey BBQ, potato salad, water and soda pop. Also, cupcakes and muffins were served. The course was mostly flat with some hills, but nothing too steep. It was a good course and the staff and volunteers did a great job.
andy colbert from oregon, il (5/2/2014) "small-town feel, yet big on organization" (about: 2014) 6-10 previous marathons \| 1 JailBreak Marathon COURSE: 4 ORGANIZATION: 5 FANS: 2 For me, this was a spur of the moment decision to run. A couple days beforehand, I found out I needed to travel 180 miles into Wisconsin for a family visit. While fiddling around on marathonguide.com, I discovered this particular marathon would be taking place only 15 miles away from where I would be staying. Normally a fall marathoner, I had some apprehension on entering; but the combination of being so close, low same day registration ($55), a rural course and positive reviews about the race got me to bite. Made the short drive over and easily registered without any wait. Very pleasant volunteers (gotta love that central Wisconsin hospitality) and low key affair overall. After running the fiasco that was the big city 2011 Las Vegas marathon, this type of marathon was quite relaxing and pleasant to be a part of. Pre-race offerings included bottled water, bananas, bagels and cream cheese. Entry fee also included high-quality long-sleeve running shirt. The course was just like I was used to training on in my neck of woods in rural northern Illinois. Every 2-3 miles, there were well-staffed water/sports drink/gel stations. I prefer running on the gravel shoulders and much of the course allowed for that. Just kind of a quaint, bucolic jog in the countryside. I'd rather run on a course like that instead of one with bunch of skyscrapers and spectators. Only thing I missed having was a clock on the course. Post-race meal was pure small-town Americana (real hot shredded roast beef, or turkey sandwich on white bun, canned corn and potato salad from a local supermarket). As a vegetarian, I gladly ate it all. Again, the servers (elderly men) couldn't have been nicer. Of the handful of marathons I have done, this was my favorite, as I felt extremely comfortable and relaxed. Another plus was meeting Boston-qualifying time for my age-group (55-59).
P. K. from Cincinnati, Ohio (5/1/2013) "Running for Andy and Barney" (about: 2013) 11-50 previous marathons \| 1 JailBreak Marathon COURSE: 5 ORGANIZATION: 5 FANS: 2 Friendly, rural, Mayberry-style marathon. I'm starting to like these smaller races more. They're more affordable, and they have a quaintness you don't get in the big guys. This one was on Saturday and raised proceeds for a local non-profit to fight crime. But Waushara County seems a quiet farm community, and a lot of the farmers are Amish, so... what crime?! There were only 70 participants for the full marathon, and it felt really weird standing in the front of the pack at the start. A local woman with a really sweet voice sang the national anthem. Then there was a nod to the Boston Marathon bombing victims. Also a Christian prayer, which was unusual, but I guess no big deal for Waushara County. The course was on rural roads through piney woods, small ponds and marshes, farmland. The day was very hot, and some of the non-shady stretches proved grueling. Water, Gatorade and gel stops every two miles. At mile 22 a pickup truck glided close and a big hand held out a full bottle of cold water, which I really needed at that point. The finish area was at a barn at the county fairgrounds and featured hot shredded roast beef or turkey sandwiches, potato salad, corn, soda. Great long-sleeved tech shirt and finishers medal (the ribbon is prison-garb black-and-white stripes!). The only drawbacks were minimal spectators and some lonely stretches of road. On the bright side, it's nice to occasionally run a peaceful race. I think I was the only out-of-stater, but I befriended some 'Wisconsonians' during the race - Mel, Bill, Andy, and Jessica - and they made it much more enjoyable than it otherwise might have been. Thanks to everyone for a pleasant time. Wisconsin's a beautiful state, so I plan to return once I conclude my 50-state quest!
B. E. from Wauwatosa, WI (5/5/2012) "Fantastic!" (about: 2012) 6-10 previous marathons \| 1 JailBreak Marathon COURSE: 5 ORGANIZATION: 5 FANS: 4 Of my 9 marathons so far, this was definitely one of my favorites! Even though there were less than 50 full-marathon finishers, the volunteers at the aide stations were enthusiastic and wonderful (while standing in the rain) - what more can you ask for really??! One-loop well-marked course with highly-visible personnel at all turns, Cytomax and Gu available frequently on the course, great swag (tech shirt, medal, water bottle and cinch-bag)... and a shiny new PR! It was a pretty great day! I will be back! Thanks!!
L. M. from Madison, WI (5/3/2012) "Great rural marathon" (about: 2012) 50+ previous marathons \| 1 JailBreak Marathon COURSE: 4 ORGANIZATION: 5 FANS: 3 This is a very well done event. It is a small event, but worth coming. AWESOME finish line food! So few marathons have good protein at the finish, so the succulent shredded hot beef and turkey sandwiches hit the spot. Nice aid stations, gu at most of them starting at mile 6 or so. Quality t-shirt, decent medal, beautiful Amish Countryside. The only complaint I would have would be the camber of the roads, but the roads were so quiet that this is the only race I've done that I felt very safe running toward the middle of the road.
K. C. from Sparta, WI (5/2/2012) "Great small rural marathon" (about: 2012) 11-50 previous marathons \| 1 JailBreak Marathon COURSE: 5 ORGANIZATION: 4 FANS: 3 If you love small marathons in rural settings you'll love this race. There are some nice small things that I really enjoyed about this race. Prior to the race several police and ems vehicles were there with sirens and lights flashing which I thought was a nice touch. One of the people who was going to run the marathon sang the national anthem, which I always think is cool. Course is entirely in the country and has what I would call rolling hills which are tough but not too tough. Nice to get out in the open country and enjoy all the smells good and bad. Even saw a few amish buggies go rolling by during the race! Course has 11ish water stations, I think each one of them had gu, gaterade and water. People and support staff at each of the stations were very encouraging and helpful!! Post race meal isn't amazing but is satisfactory. Weather was also just about perfect, if it hadn't rained. Bottomline, this is not Chicago or Boston, or New York but if you want a nice small race, where any proceeds go to a good cause I would recommend this race.
S. K. from Rancho Palos Verdes, CA (4/29/2012) "Great small town rural race! A definite must run." (about: 2012) 11-50 previous marathons \| 1 JailBreak Marathon COURSE: 5 ORGANIZATION: 5 FANS: 3 I ran this race as part of my quest to run a half marathon in all 50 states. What a wonderful race. The course was beautiful, well organized, aid stations every 3 miles, cool weather, mostly flat and well marked course. The medal and tech shirt were very nice, especially since it is such a small race. The volunteers were so kind, supportive and thanked the runners for coming out. Heck, even the traffic control police officers would thank you for running. The marathon leader even offered words of encouragement as he passed me on the course. Unheard of. I highly recommend anyone considering this race to sign up and do it. It beats any large race hands down!
b. m. from colorado springs, co (5/20/2011) "Fantastic Rural Marathon" (about: 2011) 11-50 previous marathons \| 1 JailBreak Marathon COURSE: 5 ORGANIZATION: 5 FANS: 3 This is an ideal marathon for a PR and a 50-stater. Gentle, rolling hills; perfect weather; great organization; early start; 1-loop course; and small field. In addition, I got a great shirt, medal and hot meal afterward. The race director is right there to answer questions, volunteers were so friendly, and aid stations were well stocked (although there were only 8 stations). My advice: bring some of your own fuel, enjoy the scenery, and run this race.
M. S. from Wisconsin (4/26/2010) "Great, cool, low-pressure marathon" (about: 2010) 11-50 previous marathons \| 1 JailBreak Marathon COURSE: 5 ORGANIZATION: 5 FANS: 3 The cool weather is great for a fast time. The course has some rolling parts, which help to vary your stride and speed to keep your legs fresh. Hills were never steep or long. The first two-thirds of the course runs through wind-breaking evergreen forests and the rest has some Amish farm areas. Green and beautiful with cranes calling. No spectators except hard-working, friendly folks at the stations. All miles marked with straw bales you can't miss. Only 8 rest stops, but it was 50 degrees and breezy, and most stops had energy gel, water, and sports drink. Very efficient organization, great meal, and awards were even given ahead of scheduled time. Only 36 marathoners, the little traffic and few spectators made it great to be able to focus and concentrate on the actual running of the race. No jostling or elbowing or worrying about speeding traffic - just a few horse droppings. This is not a mega-event marathon, but a great little race.

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Marathon Details - JailBreak Marathon