Chicago Marathon 2012 Running Oct 7, 2012 7:30 am

Founded in 1905 and usually taking place in October every year, the Bank of America Chicago Marathon is one of the country’s top long-distance races. It offers competitors a largely flat route; one no doubt partially responsible for the fact that four world record times have been broken by participants during the race’s history.

Part of the World Marathon Majors – of which only the Berlin, Boston, London, and New York City marathons are also classified – the Chicago Marathon attracts top competitors from all over the world who vie for a $1 million prize shared equally between the male and female winner.

Unlike some World Marathons, there is no preset qualifying time required for people to enter, though only runners who finish in under six-and-a-half hours receive an official time.

Run as a loop, the Chicago Marathon course starts at Grant Park, passing through 29 neighborhoods and by most of the city’s major sporting arenas, including Wrigley Field, The United Center, and US Cellular Field.

Often selling out, the Chicago Marathon is capped at 45,000 entrants, with many more than that lining the streets to cheer the runners on. A free-to-attend Health & Fitness Expo is held in conjunction with the race, and features more than 200 exhibitors offering Chicago Marathon merchandise and the latest in running footwear, apparel, nutrition, and technology.

Chicago Marathon entry fees are $150 for U.S. participants and $175 for non-U.S. resident participants.