Categories: Sports & Recreation
Bank of America Chicago Marathon
Author: Molly Ryan
A full 31 years ago, the city of Chicago was floored by the number of runners and supporters at the first Chicago Marathon. This year, on October 12, 2008, tens of thousands of runners will once again compete in hopes to break a world record and win the newly named Bank of America Chicago Marathon. The fast, flat course is not only a popular site for breaking records, but also for charity fundraising and personal achievement. Spectators can enjoy the race by taking a tour throughout all of the scenic neighborhoods that the runners travel through during the race.
History
In 1977, the first Chicago marathon was named after the prestigious Chicago mayor Richard M. Daley; in 2008, it's the Bank of America Chicago Marathon, but the spirit remains the same. This internationally-renowned race succeeded in becoming the largest marathon in the world in its opening year with over 4,200 runners. Since then, the race has been growing every year (in 2007, 45,000 runners entered the race). Runners from all 50 states and more than 120 countries strive to break personal and world records every year. In 2007, a CEO and men’s wheelchair marathon were added to the program of races to incorporate even more people into the event. Also, in 2007, the race was paused for the first time ever due to a high temperature of 88 degrees and a thick layer of humidity that made conditions unbearable.
General Information
Every year, the race starts off at the famed Grant Park at the early hour of 8 a.m. Runners ranging in age from 16 to over 80 take off at the sound of the gun to complete the 26.2-mile tour from the South Loop up to Wrigleyville and back. 1,200 highly trained, elite runners might be able to qualify for a start corral where they will start the race in a closed environment. If runners wish to travel in a group, pace teams are available free of charge. Leaders of the pace teams will keep all runners motivated and encourage them to finish in their desired time zone.
Charity
Running in the Chicago Marathon has helped raise money for many needy charities across the world. Some of the official charities of the Chicago Marathon include: the American Cancer Society, the American Red Cross, and AIDS marathon. If you are interested in running or raising money for a charity at the marathon, visit the charity program website.
Spectator Interest
Besides cheering on the runners, spectators have the option of exploring the historic neighborhoods that the runners fly by. See, feel, and taste the difference between Little Italy, Pilsen, and Chinatown and roam through the historic sites around Old Town and the River North. Visit one of four “Energizer Keep Going Zones” for music, prizes, and fun as super-fans cheer on the all-star competitors.
