Sunday marks the 30th anniversary of the LaSalle Bank Chicago Marathon, when more than 35,000 people will run the 26.2 mile course throughout Chicago.
Registration for runners closed April 18, the earliest close in the history of the marathon, after the maximum capacity of participants had been reached, said Marianne Caponi, spokeswoman for the marathon. However, because of drop-outs, out of the 45,000 who registered it is estimated that between 35,000 and 37,000 runners will actually take part in the race, Caponi said.
Even in bad weather, the Chicago marathon has attracted millions of spectators. This year, between 1.2 million and 1.5 million spectators are expected, Caponi said.
“What makes our marathon so unique is that it starts and finishes in the same place,” she said. “In other cities, like Boston, it’s difficult to see a runner more than two times. In Chicago, if you’re aggressive enough, you can see a runner eight or nine times without having to move around a lot.”
Runners will have a computer chip in their shoes to track their time and location at every 5K checkpoint, the half-way point and the finish line. Updates of runners’ time and status can be received throughout the marathon by registering at chicagomarathon.com. The updates will be sent via e-mail or text message whenever registered runners cross a checkpoint. Caponi said this updating system is helpful for spectators who want to meet up with a runner after he or she finishes or to be in the right place to cheer on a runner.
To be in the thick of things, Caponi said, head to hot spots such as Lincoln Park, China Town or to the halfway point near the West Loop.
“Mile 20 [near 18th and Halsted] is where the runners could use some extra motivation,” Caponi said. “They really appreciate that extra push to help finish the race.”
The route of the course hasn’t changed, despite a potential Cubs playoff game Sunday at Wrigley Field, according to Caponi.
Runners are expected to move through Wrigley between 10:20 a.m and 10:30 a.m, an hour and a half before the game starts. ashipley@tribune.com
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SEE CHICAGO RUN
LaSalle Bank Chicago Marathon
8 a.m. Sunday
COST Free for spectators, registration closed for runners.
Begins at Grant Park,
500 S. Columbus Drive
312-904-9800.
About 1.5 million people are expected on Sunday to watch the runners in the LaSalle Bank Chicago Marathon. Here are five great spectator spots along the route.
