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Bank of America Chicago Marathon

12 October 2008

Start Time : 8:00am
Number of Places : 45,000


The Chicago Marathon is highly respected. It is one of the five 'Majors' and thus has a special place in the hearts of many runners. The race commonly invites up to 45,000 runners to participate which makes for a crowded race for anyone not at the front. Depite this it has a superb atmosphere and is well justified in its top 5 status.


The Route
The Chicago Marathon is a very flat race. Fortunately, this does not mean that it is boring. With excellent scenery, superb entertainment along the way and fantastic crowd support this is a must for any serious marathon runner.

The race starts in Millenium Park. It then heads into the Loop - a modern business and retail district- before making its way to Lincoln Park and past Lincoln Zoo. If you may also catch a glimpse of Wrigley Field home of the Chicago Cubs. Soon, you'll reach the 10 mile point marked my an umissible Elvis impersonator on a masive stage. The next two miles take you through the Old Town neighbourhood, after which you will cross th eriver to the half-way mark near the Old St. Patrick's Church.

The inward 13 miles is always tough, but there still sights to see in this stretch. The next 7 miles takes winds though a number of different areas including Greek Town, Pilsen, Little Italy and Chinatown. After Chinatown you will reach Bronzeville, Chicago's black neighbourhood, at 23 miles. Almost home. On the last 3 miles you will pass through downtown Chicago once more, passing Soldier Field, home to the Chicago Bears, then Shedd Aquarium and the Adler Planetarium before the releif and joy of the finish line back in Millenium Park.


Chicago Marathon Entry
* Open until all places filled
* US entrants: $110, Non-US entrants $130
* Charity Places : Runners are advised to contact their chosen charity


Further Information
Address :The Bank of America Chicago Marathon, P.O. Box 2784, Chicago, IL 60690-2784, USA
Tel. : +01 (312) 904-9800
Email : marathon.office@abnamro.com
Website. : http://www.chicagomarathon.com

North America Marathons
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