2023 Bank of America Chicago Marathon Official Program

Dear participants,

On behalf of the Bank of America Chicago Marathon staff, the Bank of America, the City of Chicago, our sponsors and volunteers, I am thrilled to welcome you to the 45th running of the Bank of America Chicago Marathon.

Every iteration of the Bank of America Chicago Marathon is meaningful, but this year’s event marks a particularly exciting moment in the race’s history. Since 1977, hundreds of thousands of participants have crossed the Chicago Marathon finish line, from its first location at Buckingham Fountain to Lincoln Park to where you’ll finish your race on Columbus Drive. On Sunday, October 8, we will welcome the millionth finisher across the line in Grant Park. While being the millionth finisher is a unique honor, it took 999,999 finishes to reach that milestone: finishes made up of world records, American records and personal records, of smiles, tears and disbelief, of pride, pain and awe. Whether you’ve contributed to that number by running a past Chicago Marathon or will contribute to that number this fall, you are a significant part of the race’s story.

That the millionth-finisher field happens to coincide with the 45th running of the Bank of America Chicago Marathon makes the occasion even more momentous. As we’ve prepared to celebrate this milestone, we’ve looked back on the races that brought us to this point. Each running provided the opportunity to learn and adjust in an ongoing effort to make this a truly incredible event. While much has changed since 1977, the heart of the race has not: to provide participants with 26.2 miles to test their endurance, strength and tenacity in a world-class city.

Months of hard work and preparation have brought all of us to this moment. Thank you for taking time out of your life to train for this year’s Bank of America Chicago Marathon. We look forward to seeing you at the finish line.

Sincerely,

Dear Friends:

Welcome to the 45th running of the Bank of America Chicago Marathon – one of the most popular endurance races in the world.

We’re proud to host this iconic event that is a symbol of our continued commitment to, and support of, the city of Chicago—and the people and communities that make it great. We’re excited to once again welcome runners, volunteers, supporters, and fans from all over the world as they come together.

Thank you to everyone who helps to make the Bank of America Chicago Marathon possible each year – from athletes, charities, and volunteers to local businesses, city and state officials and public safety personnel. Your partnership is appreciated as we work together, with a focus on health and safety, to deliver an exceptional marathon and race experience across the 26.2-mile course.

A special thank you to those of you who are running for the benefit of a charity. Since 2002, over 170,000 Bank of America Chicago Marathon participants have raised more than $292 million for more than 190 charitable causes including a record setting $27.6 million last year. That spirit of philanthropy gives added meaning to this race and helps make a lasting impact for communities in Chicago and beyond.

On behalf of all our Bank of America teammates, it’s an honor to be part of this special event.

Good luck to all the runners and enjoy the race!

Sincerely,

SCHEDULE OF EVENTS

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 5

Abbott Health & Fitness Expo; Packet Pick-up

McCormick Place, Lakeside Center

11 a.m. – 6 p.m.

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 6

Abbott Health & Fitness Expo; Packet Pick-up

McCormick Place, Lakeside Center

9 a.m. – 6 p.m.

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 7

Abbott Chicago 5K

Grant Park

7:30 a.m.

Abbott Health & Fitness Expo; Packet Pick-up

McCormick Place, Lakeside Center

9 a.m. – 6 p.m.

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 8

Grant Park

Marathon Wheelchair Start (men): 7:20 a.m.

Marathon Wheelchair Start (women): 7:21 a.m.

Marathon Handcycle Start: 7:23 a.m.

Wave 1 Start (red): 7:30 a.m.

Wave 2 Start (blue): 8 a.m.

Wave 3 Start (orange): 8:35 a.m.

Spectator access to Grant Park begins: 9:30 a.m.

27th Mile Post Race Party

Grant Park, Butler Field 9:30 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Schedule subject to change

THE 2023 BANK OF AMERICA CHICAGO MARATHON:

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For 45 years the running community has united on the streets of Chicago to conquer 26.2 miles and call themselves marathoners. From the start line in Grant Park, through 29 unique and vibrant neighborhoods, and back to Chicago’s front yard, participants get to experience the culture and history of one of the greatest cities in the world, all while writing their own story. As we celebrate this milestone in the event’s history, we’re excited to share the stories of the individuals, the race and the city that make the Bank of America Chicago Marathon one in a million.

The Bank of America Chicago Marathon has been the backdrop to many historic moments, from record-setting performances to innovative event operations that have become industry standards. Throughout this year’s program we invite you to relive some of the event’s biggest moments and hear from individuals who have made and continue to play a role in making the Chicago Marathon the world-renowned event it is today.

THANK YOU VOLUNTEERS!

The event that would eventually take 47,000-plus runners through 29 neighborhoods began with five people in a meeting room at the Metropolitan YMCA on LaSalle Street. Key founders included financial advisor Wendell “Wendy” Miller, who’d become the first race director, and Sharon Mier, director of women’s sports at the Loop Center YMCA.

The founders secured a sponsor, local businessman Lee Flaherty’s Flair Communications, and the support of thenMayor Michael Bilandic, a runner himself. On September 25, 1977, more than 4,200 runners paid the $5 entry fee to compete in what was then called the Mayor Daley Marathon, after the late Richard J. Daley.

Dan Cloeter of Indiana and Dorothy Doolittle of Texas battled the crowds to become Chicago’s first winners, in a race with 2,128 finishers.

More than 4,200 participants gathered at Daley Plaza for the first Mayor Daley Marathon, making it the largest marathon in the world at the time in terms of registered participants.

Wesley Paul, an eight-year-old who finished in 3:15:20, set a world record in his age group.

1978

DALEY PLAZA

THE ORIGINAL CHICAGO START LINE

At the heart of the Loop business district and in the shadow of the Richard J. Daley Center, this public plaza hosts farmer’s markets and cultural events. It’s also home to one of the city’s most iconic structures, an untitled 50-foot-tall Picasso sculpture. The race started here until 1994, when it moved to Grant Park.

The entry fee for the second running of the Chicago Marathon was $10, a price that some felt was too high at the time.

Lakefront temperatures reached 85 degrees for the second annual event. But the warm temperatures couldn’t stop Arizona’s Mark Stanforth or South Dakota’s Lynae Larson. Both conquered the heat to claim victory over the other 4,053 finishers.

For the first time in U.S. history a dual start was used, the two points a block apart, which helped spread out the 5,200 starters.

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Though he’d done more BMX biking and skateboarding than running, Nishi felt good on race day. When he slowed to veer home, other runners—not knowing his intentions—encouraged him. Nishi completed the whole 26.2-mile course.

While he wouldn’t recommend this approach now, his experience inspired his career. In high school, he interned for the race through Flair Communications; in 1990, new race director Carey Pinkowski picked Nishi as his righthand man. They’ve worked together ever since.

Thirteen-year-old Michael Nishi and his mom had a plan. Race organizers invited them to the third Chicago Marathon’s finish-line celebration. Nishi would start the race and run to his house at Mile 6 to change before the party

As general manager, Nishi manages logistics, safety, insurance and other behind-the-scenes elements. His current goals include improving accessibility and sustainability; for instance, involving underrepresented groups and transforming compostable cups into soil for community gardens. But the most rewarding part remains seeing young runners—like he once was—achieve their dreams.

1979

A er experiencing less-than-ideal running conditions at the 1978 race, event organizers pushed the race date back a month to the end of October. Despite these efforts, 3,700 race starters battled the 77º heat, 81% humidity and 20-mile-per-hour wind gusts along the lakefront. Only 2,869 participants finished the race.

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Through 61 years of running, Randy Burt estimates he’s logged about 109,000 miles— more than 1,000 of them along the Chicago Marathon course. He’s one of three runners who have completed every single iteration of the race. That includes the 2020 virtual event, which Burt did in 13 repetitions of his normal training loop outside his Antioch, Illinois, home.

Before that initial race, Burt had never run more than 10 miles. He was 29 and figured he’d better take a shot at the distance before he was too old. But he fell in love, and this year, Chicago will mark his 90th marathon.

Burt’s personal best of 3:06 came during the 1984 race, as he watched Steve Jones crush the world record across the course. For 30 consecutive years, until 2018, Burt qualified

RANDY BURT Alumni Runner

for Boston. Now, he has his sights set on another big goal: reaching the 50th Chicago Marathon in the year of his 80th birthday.

1980

Jane Schiff was the Chicago Marathon’s first unofficial wheelchair winner with a time of 3:02:38.

Frank Richardson of Iowa, a newlywed of just 49 days, and Sue Peterson, a Californian who crossed the finish line alongside her husband Pete, claimed victories with the fastest winning times Chicago had seen to date.

Ida Mintz, 74, finished the race with her son, daughter-in-law and grandson in 4:45, claiming the title of the world’s oldest female marathoner

AND CITY AGENCIES EVENT GROWTH SUPPORT FROM

Four years in, the marathon had grown to 5,400 runners; now, the field exceeds 47,000. Moving those runners safely through 29 neighborhoods takes citywide coordination. The city council and the mayor’s office guide preparation and execution; the Chicago Fire Department, Chicago Police Department and Streets and Sanitation, among others, play a role in readying the streets and protecting runners, spectators and volunteers. Representatives from all these agencies and more communicate through a central command center on race day, ready to respond to any scenario.

The fi h running of the Chicago Marathon welcomed 5,400 participants aged seven to 78 years old, including 12 corporate teams, two wheelchair participants and one visually impaired participant.

Iowa’s Phil Coppess, running his third marathon, and Tina Gandy of Minnesota raced against 25-mile-per-hour winds on their way to victory.

While most participants were sleeping, two participants began the 1981 Chicago Marathon at 2 a.m. on Sunday in order to finish the entire 26.2-mile course by the 3:30 p.m. deadline — walking.

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Sunday, you just might ride with a champion. That’s what unwittingly happened to the hotel’s General Manager of 16 years, John Wells, a few years ago. He asked the finishers in his car about their race. “Two of the runners just pointed at the third runner and said, ‘He won!’” Wells says.

Moments like these are common at the official headquarters hotel for the Bank of America Chicago Marathon. Each year, the Hilton Chicago sells out its 1500-plus rooms as it’s one of the most convenient places to stay; runners simply cross the street to the start and finish lines in Grant Park.

Supportive spectators help fatigued runners through the lobby. Journalists snap photos, film videos and file stories from the media center. Plus, if you take an elevator in the Hilton Chicago on Marathon

Before and after the race, they can use the city’s largest hotel gym—including an indoor pool and running track—and get cheers from a crew in marathon shirts, proud to be associated with the prestigious international event. Four to six Hilton Chicago team members even complete the course each year, Wells says.

1982

Americans Greg Meyer and Nancy Conz, both from Massachusetts, won the race in course records.

The 1982 Chicago Marathon was an international affair, with 30 world-class runners from eight different nations competing among the 6,014 racers, 4,642 of whom finished.

The event introduced prize money totaling $77,000

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photographed more than three million runners over 45 years.

Davis, a high-school cross country runner, got his first camera as a 16th birthday present. After college, he launched a graduation photo business. In 1977, he read an article about the estimated 15,000 runners expected at an upcoming race. Surely, some would want photos, he thought.

He tested the theory at the Chicago Distance Classic, and MarathonFoto was born. The Chicago Marathon solicited his services in 1983. Davis has personally photographed the race all but one year since.

To capture the soul of a runner, don’t rely on a finish-line picture. Rather, snap a shot in the final stretch when determination and pride radiate.

So says MarathonFoto founder Jim Davis, who’s

He sold the company in 2007, but still works part-time; business remains strong despite smartphones. “Before, we were the only picture you could get. Now, we’re the best picture you can get,” he says. “It’s still working.”

A record 250,000 Chicagoans cheered on the participants, helping 5,237 mostly local runners make it

LINCOLN PARK

ONCE A LOCATION OF THE FINISH LINE

Within this nearly 1,200-acre park—the city’s largest—lies a whole town’s worth of attractions. You can see animals at the free zoo or plants at the conservatory, catch a show at the theater or browse exhibits at two museums. Up for something more active? There’s also a rowing canal, archery range and five playgrounds, plus two beaches.

Great Britain’s Steve Jones delivered Chicago’s first-ever world record, establishing the event’s reputation on the international stage.

Portugal’s Rosa Mota defended her title while breaking the women’s course record she set the previous year.

The Chicago Marathon hosted the first official wheelchair competition, with five men and one woman competing. Robert Fitch from East Lansing, Michigan, took the men’s title while Jonnie Baylark from Bellwood, Illinois, won the women’s race.

JOAN BENOIT SAMUELSON

The year after she claimed gold in the first-ever women’s Olympic marathon, Joan Benoit Samuelson triumphed once again. Her winning time of 2:21:21 at the 1985 Chicago Marathon was an American record that would stand nearly 20 years, until 2003. Samuelson has returned to run several times since, including in 2018 with her daughter Abby.

Joan Benoit Samuelson claimed victory and set new American and course records, missing Ingrid Kristiansen’s world record by just 15 seconds.

For the first time, the Chicago Marathon course appeared on the certified course list of USA Track and Field (USATF).

Steve Jones returned to Chicago with the goal of setting another world record but missed the mark by just one second.

1986

ARCHITECTURE

From soaring skyscrapers to ornate cathedrals and cozy bungalows, Chicago lays claim to a diversity of architectural designs and leaders. You’ll spot many types of buildings along the marathon course; for a greater appreciation, make time for the 90-minute Chicago Architecture Center River Cruise, where knowledgeable guides describe the city’s styles and structures.

Norway’s Ingrid Kristiansen dominated the professional women’s race, crossing the finish line more than two minutes ahead of her competitors.

The 10th anniversary of the Chicago Marathon welcomed more than 10,000 participants for the first time.

Japan’s Toshihiko Seko claimed victory in the professional men’s race.

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he’d hurt his foot the day before and dropped out before the finish.

He returned next year to complete what he started and crossed the line in 2:08:05, a new world record. The feat took Jones by surprise. He wore no watch and didn’t realize how fast he was going until two miles out.

The next year Jones won the London Marathon, then returned to Chicago and ran 2:07:13. That time he missed another world record by a second— Carlos Lopes had run 2:07:12 at Rotterdam in the meantime—but set a British record that stood for 33 years.

Steve Jones—then a plane mechanic in the Welsh Royal Air Force—officially made his marathon debut in the Chicago Marathon in 1983. However,

Jones retired in the early ’90s with five marathon victories to his name; he now lives in Boulder, Colorado, and coaches a group called the Boulder Harriers.

Steve Jones, now a hero in Chicago, returned to compete in the half marathon and claimed victory.

A half marathon was held in place of the Chicago Marathon due to loss of sponsorship.

No prize money was offered in the half marathon, but 3,000 runners took part.

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Mexican runners have done well in Chicago— Alejandro Cruz won the 1988 race in 2:08:57, and in 1990, Mexico’s Martin Pitayo took the crown in 2:09:41. Among his support squad was travel agent Jesús Nieto, himself a sub-elite runner (he ran the 2003 Chicago Marathon in 2:50:25).

Through his friend Pitayo, Nieto connected with race organizers. By 1992, he had a contract to bring tour groups to race Chicago. Nieto started with about 25 runners; in 2023, he and his son Agustin will bring about 500 runners to the Windy City through their company, Plaza Maratones.

Plaza Maratones secures hotel rooms close to the start and finish, plans group activities and guides spectators around the course, among other services. Though they also take groups to other races, Chicago is popular due to its proximity, fast course and superior organization. It’s also

1988

The Chicago Marathon returned with Old Style as the new title sponsor.

particularly meaningful to the Nietos: “It was the key to building our business,” Agustin says.

Alejandro Cruz of Mexico claimed victory, setting a national record and new

Lisa Weidenbach of Seattle, Wash., took the top spot and became the fi h American woman to run a sub-2:30 marathon

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Gatorade, the race’s new official hydration partner. Winner Lisa Weidenbach told the Chicago Tribune the beverage restored her blood sugar at Mile 20, powering her to a 2:28:15 finish.

Tom Prochaska worked in marketing for Gatorade for 25 years, during which the brand and the race grew in tandem. The partnership was mutually beneficial: the race needed fluids, and Gatorade, headquartered in Chicago, could introduce its products to thousands of runners.

Some employees got directly involved, staffing an aid station Prochaska coordinated. “They got to see the product they made actually being used,” he says. That led to new ideas and innovations.

October 29, 1989 was warm and humid, with temperatures reaching into the 70s. Fortunately, runners had a new way to combat the conditions:

Though Prochaska retired in 2022, the relationship remains strong. Runners now consume more than 32,000 gallons of Gatorade Endurance Formula on course.

Paul Davis-Hale of Great Britain and America’s Lisa Weidenbach battled unseasonably warm temperatures to become champions.

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When Indiana native Carey Pinkowski ran track and cross country at Villanova University, he took the train to watch the New York City Marathon each year, intrigued by its inner workings.

After graduation, he ran the 1983 Chicago Marathon in a speedy 2:20:48. The next several years, as he pursued pro running, he returned to watch as records fell and a tradition took root. He shifted into sports marketing and began doing community-building work for the Marathon in 1989. Just a year later, Lee Flaherty asked him to step into the leading role.

In that time, he’s overseen growth from 6,000 finishers to more than 47,000, who run a looped, city-spanning course Pinkowski designed. He’s recruited his own record-breaking elites, including Deena Kastor and Sammy Wanjiru. And he’s helped

1990

transform running from an extreme sport into a city-wide movement. “Running has become part of the culture here,” he says. “I’m very proud of that.”

Mexico’s Martin Pitayo surged ahead of Poland’s Antoni Niemczak at the finish line to beat Niemczak by less than a step; the 0.3-second margin of victory was one of the narrowest in race history.

Ann Cody-Morris won in the women’s wheelchair competition, joining an elite group of women who have captured back-to-back Chicago victories.

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UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS AND ROAD RACING TEAM WHEELCHAIR TRACK

The University of Illinois has a dominant wheelchairracing program and a winning history in Chicago.

U of I athlete Ann Walters won in 1991 with a time of 1:57:17, then repeated each year through 1996. Her unprecedented streak would only be topped by fellow Illini Tatyana McFadden, who won seven straight titles from 2011 to 2017.

Ann Walters won the women’s wheelchair competition, a streak she would continue for the next six years.

Joseildo Rocha of Brazil and Midde Hamrin-Senorski of Sweden claimed victory but finished with the slowest winning times since 1981 for both men and women.

A er the title sponsor pulled out, the winners’ prize money was cut to $7,500 (from a high of $50,000 from 1986 to 1989).

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a unique role. Or—in the case of Lauren Ford— several roles.

Ford began volunteering in 2019 to meet people and get inspiration to start running. She’s yet to take up the sport, but has become a crucial part of race operations.

This year, she’ll drive from Southfield, Michigan— where she moved during the pandemic—in time for the first Packet Pick-up shift. She’ll stay at the expo until it ends, crash in a hotel room, and get up the next morning to do it all again.

On race day, she helps with everything from start line aid stations to finish line medal distribution and food supplies. “I step in wherever they need me,” she says.

The Bank of America Chicago Marathon enlists more than 10,000 volunteers, each of whom plays

Like running, her efforts require endurance—and, a hefty dose of patience and grace under pressure. But the reward comes in the gratitude of runners happy to encounter a smiling, encouraging face, Ford says.

Cesar DeSouza became the second consecutive men’s champion from Brazil.

Ann Walters Thompson’s second wheelchair female wheelchair performance in Chicago until 2013, when Tatyana

American Linda Somers won the women’s race by two minutes.

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Fall in the Midwest makes for sometimes-unpredictable conditions. In 1993, Chicago runners faced snow, 34° temperatures and 12° wind chills; meanwhile, historic heat halted the race in 2007. Afterward, organizers developed the color-coded Event Alert System. Beginning race week, runners receive email, website, written and verbal updates about course conditions—from green (low/good conditions) to yellow (moderate/less-than-ideal conditions) to red (high/potentially dangerous) to black (extreme/dangerous, event cancelled).

Women’s champion Ritva Lemettinen of Finland was briefly disqualified with charges of running behind two male pacers who blocked the wind from her path, a violation of a USA Track & Field rule that was later overturned due to unclear wording.

Luiz Antonio Dos Santos became the third consecutive Brazilian man to win the Chicago Marathon.

Snowfall, 34º temperatures and 12º wind chills greeted 6,941 Chicago Marathon participants on Halloween, the latest race date in Chicago Marathon history.

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exactly the right distance: 26.2 miles plus 26 feet, a buffer mandated by the sport’s governing bodies.

Course measuring takes place using a device called a Jones counter on a carefully calibrated bike. With a team, Marquez rides the streets—usually, about 3 a.m. on a summer Saturday or Sunday— conducting his calculations.

On race day he switches to four wheels, riding ahead of the elites in the lead vehicle. That way, he can certify that racers traveled the route he measured. He also serves as race director Carey Pinkowski’s eyes and ears on the course.

Neyl Marquez has never traveled the Bank of America Chicago Marathon course on foot. But he’s frequently cycled the route, checking that it’s

It’s a meticulous job, but one that Marquez, who’s helped with race operations since he was a runner at Loyola University in the 1980s, finds rewarding. And thanks to his efforts, any world record set on the course can be immediately claimed.

A new title sponsor and the accompanying financial boost from LaSalle Bank put a freshly christened LaSalle Bank Chicago Marathon back among the world’s top races.

The start line of the race was moved from Chicago’s Daley Plaza to Grant Park.

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years, life threw more curveballs, including a foot infection requiring 13 surgeries, her husband’s eventual death, and most recently, an erroneous eye drop prescription that partially blinded her.

Through it all, marathoning built resilience. Cain won the 1985 Rome Marathon and two USATF National Marathon Championships in her age group. This year, at 72, she’ll run her 79th marathon in Chicago and compete in the Abbott World Marathon Majors Wanda Age Group World Championships.

Janet Cain began running in 1975 to cope with stress from a tough psychology Ph.D. program and her husband’s cancer diagnosis. Through the

Cain lives in Sonoma but loves the Great Lakes— she lived for years in Cleveland—and flat, fast courses. With guidance from her coach Dick Beardsley and support from a guide, she hopes to finish in about 4:20. But she’s open to surprises: “I love the marathon because, like life, you can never quite predict what will happen,” she says.

Eamonn Martin of Great Britain bolted past Carlos Bautista of Mexico in the last 200 meters to claim victory by just three seconds.

James Briggs of Champaign, Illinois, beat Scot Hollonbeck, also of Champaign, claiming victory in the wheelchair race by one second

Seventy-five-year-old Warren Utes of Park Forest, Illinois, set his seventh national age group record with his time of 3:18:07.

CHICAGO AREA RUNNER’S ASSOCIATION

Though today’s runners might not know it, CARA was born from controversy: in 1978, some of the Marathon’s original organizers proposed doubling registration fees and delaying the start time. Others splintered to form CARA, an advocacy group to protect runners’ interests. As the years passed, differences faded and CARA became a key training partner, preparing nearly 700 local runners for the race in 1996, and more each year to this day.

The Chicago Area Runners Association, which started as protest movement, trained nearly 700 participants at four different locations throughout Chicago, becoming a key training partner for local runners.

Paul Evans won the professional men’s competition in 2:08:52, the eighth-fastest time in the world for 1996.

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The flat course, international status and generous prize purse draws many elites to Chicago for their first attempt at 26.2 miles. The world debut record has been broken here three times—in 1997 by Khalid Khannouchi (2:07:10), 1998 by Kenya’s Ondoro Osoro (2:06:54) and 2003 by Kenya’s Evans Rutto (2:05:50). Many American marathoners start here too; in 2022, for example, Utah’s Conner Mantz ran 2:08:16, just 20 seconds off the American marathon debut record.

Khalid Khannouchi, a Moroccan based in Brooklyn, New York, arrived in Chicago for his marathon debut. Not only did his 2:07:10 give him the victory, but he also set course, debut and North American records while running the fourth-fastest marathon time ever.

1997

The 20th anniversary event showed new diversity, with participants from all 50 states and 47 countries represented..

The Chicago Marathon welcomed more than 10,000 participants across the finish line for the first time.

RACE TIMING CHANGES IN

As technology advances, race organizers continually incorporate innovations. Four years after its introduction at the Berlin Marathon, Chicago began using the ChampionChip timing system—sensors and mats that ensured exact timing at the start, half marathon, and finish. The system also enabled a more precise count of starters and finishers (17,731 and 17,204, respectively, in 1998).

Race organizers debuted the ChampionChip timing system to ensure exact timing for every participant at the start, half marathon and finish.

1998

Newcomer Ondoro Osoro of Kenya set course, world debut, North American and Kenyan national records with the then–third-fastest performance of all-time.

The Chicago Marathon partnered with the Chicago Tribune to help commemorate professional and mass participation field performances.

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moved to Brooklyn, where he worked in restaurants to fund his training.

At the 1997 Chicago Marathon, Khannouchi burst onto America’s marathoning scene. His time of 2:07:10 was the fastest-ever debut, as well as a course and North American record.

Injury interfered with defending his title, so Khannouchi returned in 1999 with a score to settle. He moved into second at Mile 21, then passed Kenya’s Moses Tanui at Mile 25 en route to an astonishing 2:05:42, a world record by 23 seconds.

Moroccan-born athlete Khalid Khannouchi came to New York in 1993 to win the 5,000 meters at the World University Games and never left. Instead, he

Khannouchi became an American citizen in 2000 and went on to win in Chicago twice more, in 2000 and 2002. In between, he bettered the world record again, completing the 2002 London Marathon in 2:05:38. He retired in 2012, and afterward served as an ambassador for the Chicago Marathon and the sport.

1999

Defending champion Joyce Chepchumba of Kenya stunned spectators when she tripped near mile 10. A er regaining her composure, she slowly reeled in the lead pack to arrive side-by-side on Columbus Drive with fellow Kenyan Margaret Okayo. Chepchumba’s track speed made all the difference as she won by less than one step (2:25:59 to 2:26:00).

Khalid Khannouchi set the men’s world record with a time of 2:08:05, breaking Ronaldo da Costa’s world record by 23 seconds and becoming the first man to run under 2:06.

The Chicago Marathon exceeded 20,000 finishers for the first time.

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On Oct. 22, 2000, “Catherine the Great” Ndereba— coming off a win at the previous April’s Boston Marathon—ran 2:21:33 to outpace fellow Kenyan Lornah Kiplagat and claim Chicago Marathon victory. Still, she wasn’t selected for the country’s Olympic team, a snub she said fueled her future efforts.

Kiplagat and Ndereba battled again in 2001, starting the frigid day at a relatively pedestrian pace. But by halfway, Ndereba—wearing black gloves and a headband—struck out alone and the miles clicked by faster and faster. With a 5:12 23rd mile and 5:09 24th mile, she sprinted toward a 2:18:47 finish, the first sub-2:19 by a woman and a world record by nearly a full minute.

By the end of her distinguished career, Ndereba won not only two Chicago Marathons but four Boston Marathons, two world titles, and two

Olympic silver medals in 2004 and 2008. She retired in 2014 at age 41.

A record 27,956 finishers made the Chicago Marathon the fourth-largest marathon in history at the time.

Khalid Khannouchi won his third Chicago Marathon, setting the American record a er being disappointed at not being able to represent the U.S. in the Sydney Olympics earlier in the year.

Catherine “The Great” Ndereba joined Ingrid Kristiansen (1986) as the only women to win Boston and Chicago in the same year Ndereba’s winning time of 2:21:33 was the fastest run in 2000.

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Food Quality and Sourcing

We are sourcing delicious, quality ingredients.

Community Connection

We are connecting with communities in times of need, and we’re also proud to help support Ronald McDonald House Charities®.

Our Planet

We are driving climate action to help protect our planet.

Jobs, Inclusion and Empowerment

We are increasing our focus on equity and providing opportunity.

At McDonald’s, our purpose is to feed and foster communities.

ONE OF A MILLION

As a pacer, Toth saves people from starting too fast. She encourages them when they’re struggling. Then—if they feel good at mile 20— she urges them ahead, to achieve more than they thought possible.

Toth started running about 10 years ago, at age 49, to cope with stress from a divorce. In that time, she’s cut her marathon time from 3:55 to 3:27 and paced more than 20 half and 20 full marathons.

This October, she’ll use her expertise to pace the 4-hour group. To hit the per-mile time, she’ll practice beforehand since GPS signals aren’t reliable downtown, she points out and doublecheck her watch at each split.

The Bank of America Chicago Marathon offers pace groups for everyone from debut marathoners to those looking for a Boston qualifying time, and Danrey Toth highly recommends runners join one.

The biggest challenge, she says, is carrying the pace-group sign. The best part? Helping people realize their potential. “When I was down, people lifted me up,” she says. “Now, I’m paying it back.”

2001

In one of the most stunning upsets in Chicago Marathon history, Kenya’s Ben Kimondiu — a pacesetter hired to push a fast pace for the first half — decided to stay in the race and won in impressive fashion, out-kicking heavily favored Paul Tergat of Kenya in 2:08:52.

Catherine Ndereba set the women’s world record with a time of 2:18:47. Her performance, the first ever sub-2:19 run by a woman, lowered the mark, set only a week earlier in Berlin, by 59 seconds.

The Chicago Marathon registration reached a record 37,500 participants, selling out for the first time.

DUSABLE LAKE SHORE

DRIVE/LAKEFRONT PATH

Jean-Baptiste Pointe DuSable Lake Shore Drive is the major throughfare connecting the city’s north and south sides, hugging the curving shores of Lake Michigan. Thanks to architect Daniel Burnham’s 1909 Plan of Chicago, the land east of the road is almost all public parks. Through it winds 18 glorious miles of paved, separated running and biking trails, where many locals log their training.

The Chicago Marathon introduced the event’s Official Charity Program, offering participants the opportunity to run and fundraise on behalf of charity.

Khalid Khannouchi outkicked Toshinari Takaoka of Japan to win in 2:05:56, becoming the first marathoner to record three sub-2:06 performances.

Paula Radcliffe ran alone in the final stretch up DuSable Lake Shore Drive to set a new world record with a time of 2:17:18. Radcliffe improved the world record, which Catherine Ndereba set in Chicago a year earlier, by an amazing 89 seconds.

Making an impact, one step at a time

Deloitte is proud to support the thousands of inspirational runners who choose to run the marathon on behalf of a charity. With every step they take, they are taking strides to improve the lives of others, and their communities. www.deloitte.com

COURSE ENTERTAINMENT

Words of encouragement and cheers of support from spectators have helped thousands of participants cross the finish line at the Bank of America Chicago Marathon. Your energy and inspiration make a difference!

The Bank of America Chicago Marathon also features four themed Cheer Zones on the course at the 8K marker, Mile 13.1, Mile 15 and Mile 26. We encourage you to join one if you’ll be spectating on race day!

BANK OF AMERICA SHAMROCK SHUFFLE CHEER ZONE – 8K Cheer on participants as they shamROCK through the Bank of America Shamrock Shuffle Cheer Zone located in Lincoln Park at the 8K mark. The Shamrock Shuffle is the kickoff to the Chicago running season and is a continuation of the city’s St. Patrick’s Day celebrations. The 43rd running of the Shamrock Shuffle will take place on Sunday, March 24, 2024. Visit shamrockshuffle.com for more information.

Mile 25 to claim victory.

2002 champion Paula Radcliffe beat her own world record set at the 2003 London Marathon, with a time of 2:15:25. This stood until 2019 when another world record was set in Chicago.

Kenyan Evans Rutto claimed victory and set a debut marathon record in 2:05:50.

2004

BANK OF AMERICA CHICAGO 13.1 CHEER ZONE – MILE 13.1

Reimagine the run and celebrate Chicago’s West Side at the halfway point of the course! The third annual Bank of America Chicago 13.1 will be held on June 9, 2024, running through the historic parks, boulevards and vibrant culture of Garfield Park, Humboldt Park and Douglass Park. Visit chicago13point1.com to learn more.

CHARITY BLOCK PARTY – MILE 15

Thousands of Bank of America Chicago Marathon participants run and fundraise on behalf of important local, national and global causes. To celebrate the impact these participants make, the Bank of America Chicago Marathon hosts a Charity Block Party near Mile 15. Spectators, family and friends can cheer on their charity runners at the Charity Block Party, located at Adams Street and Loomis Street near Whitney Young High School.

BANK OF AMERICA CHEER ZONE – MILE 26

Listen for the sound of a crowd filled with noisemakers and exciting on-course entertainment as you enter the Bank of America Cheer Zone on your way to the finish line near Michigan Avenue and Roosevelt Road.

COMMUNITY CHEER ZONES

Local running clubs, community groups, organizations, businesses and international groups have organized cheer zones throughout the course to motivate participants on their 26.2-mile journey through Chicago. Visit chicagomarathon.com/cheerzones to view a list of groups and their locations on the course.

Constantina

Tomescu-Dita won her first major marathon title in a time of 2:23:45, just 10 seconds off her personal best.

Evans Rutto defended his title, notching the fourth-fastest winning time in Chicago Marathon history, and the second-fastest marathon in 2004.

The Chicago Marathon continued to grow as an international attraction, welcoming participants from 121 countries.

Beloved American marathoner Deena Kastor won a gritty, thrilling victory at the 2005 Chicago Marathon, prevailing over Constantina Tomescu-Dita by five seconds. In 2009, she ran 2:28:50 to place fourth; in 2015, she shattered the American master’s record with a 2:27:47 at age 42. Now, even if she’s not running, she travels to Chicago each fall as an ambassador and commentator.

Felix Limo

break away from the lead pack, sprinting away with an impressive victory in 2:07:02. Four more Kenyans— Ben Maiyo, Daniel Njenga, Evans Rutto and Patrick Ivuti—all finished within 44 seconds of Limo.

Chicago-based and its charity arm Ronald McDonald House Charities joined the Chicago Marathon as a partner.

Then–American record holder Deena Kastor captured her first big-city marathon win. Her performance was the third-fastest time ever run by an American at the time.

SPECTATOR GUIDE

Cheer on this year’s Bank of America Chicago Marathon participants along the course or from home by following TV and radio coverage of the event. Spectators can track individual runners using the Bank of America Chicago Marathon App, Powered by Tata Consultancy Services. After the race, join your participant at the 27th Mile Post-Race Party in Grant Park.

GRANT PARK SPECTATOR ACCESS

Spectators will not have access to the race start and finish areas within Grant Park on race day. These areas will be accessible only to participants displaying their event-issued bib numbers, event staff with proper credentials and ticketed guests (where applicable). Family, friends and individuals who are not registered for the race will not be able to escort participants to the start line.

We recommend that spectators support participants from elsewhere on the course and meet runners after the race in the Runner Reunite area of the 27th Mile PostRace Party.

The 27th Mile Post-Race Party will open to spectators at 9:30 a.m. To access this area, spectators must pass through security and bag screening at Entrance Gate #1 (Jackson Drive and Michigan Avenue) or Entrance Gate #4 (Ida B. Wells Drive and Michigan Avenue).

FINISH LINE VIEWING

Cheer on participants as they make the turn on to Columbus Drive in the final stretch of the Bank of America Chicago Marathon. New this year, spectators can purchase East Side Viewing tickets to access an exclusive spectator view area at the finish line. For more information visit chicagomarathon.com/marathonstore.

BANK OF AMERICA CHICAGO MARATHON APP, POWERED BY TCS

The Bank of America Chicago Marathon App, Powered by Tata Consultancy Services, is the perfect resource to prepare for the Bank of America Chicago Marathon. Whether you’re running or spectating, the free mobile app includes everything you’ll need to be prepared for a great race week experience.

The mobile app is available to download for iOS and Android devices.

The Abbott World Marathon Majors were founded in Chicago, with the help of Chicago Marathon Executive Race Director Carey Pinkowski.

The professional women’s race saw four national records fall from Berhane Adere of Ethiopia, Galina Bogomolova of Russia, Benita Johnson of Australia and Madia Perez of Mexico.

670 The Score signed on as the official radio broadcast partner of the Chicago Marathon.

CTA STATIONS ON THE COURSE

GRAND RED LINE STATION

Miles 1, 3 and 12.5

Board a Red Line train and exit at Grand Avenue (mile 1). Walk three blocks west to LaSalle Street (mile 3) and four blocks west to Wells Street (mile 12.5).

JACKSON RED OR BLUE LINE STATION

Mile 2

Board a Red or Blue Line train and exit at Jackson Street.

CHICAGO RED LINE STATION

Miles 3.5 and 12.25

Board a Red Line train and exit at Chicago Avenue. Walk three blocks west to LaSalle Street (mile 3.5) and Four blocks west to Wells Street (mile 12.25).

CLARK/DIVISION RED LINE STATION

Miles 4 and 12

Board a Red Line train and exit at LaSalle Street (mile 4). Walk one block west to Wells Street (mile 12).

SHERIDAN RED LINE STATION

Mile 8

Board a Red Line train and exit at Sheridan. Walk four blocks east to Broadway.

ADDISON RED LINE STATION

Mile 8.5

Board a Red Line train and exit at Addison Street. Walk four blocks east to Broadway.

SEDGWICK BROWN LINE STATION

Mile 11

Board a Brown Line train and exit at Sedgwick Street. Walk a half-block north to North Avenue.

WASHINGTON/WELLS BROWN, PINK OR ORANGE LINE STATION

Mile 13.5

Board any Brown, Pink or Orange Line train and exit at Washington/Wells. Walk two blocks west on Washington to Wacker Drive.

UIC-HALSTED BLUE LINE STATION

Miles 14 and 17

Board a Blue Line train and exit at UICHalsted. Use the Halsted Street exit or Morgan Street exit and walk two blocks north to Adams Street to view the runners around Mile 14 in Greektown. Or use the Halsted Street or Morgan Street exit and walk one block north to Jackson to view runners around Mile 17.

18TH PINK LINE STATION

Mile 19.25

Board a Pink Line train and exit at 18th Street. Walk four blocks east to Loomis Street.

CERMAK-CHINATOWN RED LINE STATION

Mile 21.5

Board a Red Line train and exit at Cermak-Chinatown.

SOX-35TH RED LINE STATION

Miles 23, 23.25 and 23.5

Board a Red Line train and exit at Sox35th. Use the 33rd Street exit and walk four blocks to Michigan Avenue (mile 23) or walk five blocks east to Indiana (mile 23.5). Exit at 35th Street and walk four blocks east on 35th Street to Michigan Avenue to view runners around Mile 23.25 as they run on 35th Street from Michigan to Indiana.

35TH-BRONZEVILLE-IIT GREEN LINE STATION

Miles 23, 23.25 and 23.5

Board a Green Line train and exit at 35th-Bronzeville-IIT. Use the 33rd Street exit and walk one block east to Michigan Avenue (mile 23) or two blocks east to Indiana (mile 23.5). Exit at 35th Street and walk one block east to Michigan Avenue to view runners around Mile 23.25 as they run on 35th Street from Michigan to Indiana.

CERMAK-MCCORMICK PLACE GREEN LINE STATION

Mile 25

Board a Green Line train and exit at Cermak-McCormick Place. Walk two blocks east to Michigan Avenue.

ROOSEVELT (RED, GREEN AND ORANGE LINE) STATION

Finish Line

Board a Red, Green or Orange Line train and exit at Roosevelt Road. Walk east on Roosevelt Road toward the Museum Campus/Grant Park.

ELITE ATHLETE PREVIEW

The 2023 Bank of America Chicago Marathon elite field is one of the deepest, most-decorated assemblies of athletes in race history. The 2022 defending champions will lead the competition and continue the tradition of competitive racing on Sunday, October 8.

“Chicago has been home to world records and historic debuts and has served as an introduction to runners who became legends of the sport,” says Executive Race Director Carey Pinkowski. “As we prepare to celebrate a landmark year in the race’s history, we anticipate historic performances that we will talk about for years to come.” Check out the field that will line up in Grant Park this October. The full roster can be viewed at chicagomarathon.com.

2022 BANK OF AMERICA CHICAGO MARATHON DEFENDING CHAMPIONS

MEN’S OPEN DIVISION (INTERNATIONAL)

Kelvin Kiptum (KEN, 2:01:25)

Bashir Abdi (BEL, 2:03:36)

Dawit Wolde (ETH, 2:04:27)

Seifu Tura (ETH, 2:04:29)

Daniel Do Nascimento (BRA, 2:04:51)

WOMEN’S OPEN DIVISION (INTERNATIONAL)

Joyciline Jepkosgei (KEN, 2:17:43)

Genzebe Dibaba (ETH, 2:18:05)

Sutume Kebede (ETH, 2:18:12)

Sifan Hassan (NED, 2:18:33)

Tigist Girma (ETH, 2:18:52)

MEN’S OPEN DIVISION (AMERICAN)

Galen Rupp (USA, 2:06:07)

Conner Mantz (USA, 2:08:16)

Matt McDonald (USA, 2:09:49)

Mick Iacofano (USA, 2:09:55)

Colin Mickow (USA, 2:11:22)

WOMEN’S OPEN DIVISION (AMERICAN)

Emily Sisson (USA, 2:18:29)

Des Linden (USA, 2:22:38)

Emma Bates (USA, 2:23:18)

Aliphine Tuliamuk (USA, 2:24:37)

Molly Seidel (USA, 2:24:42)

MEN’S WHEELCHAIR DIVISION

Ernst Van Dyk (RSA, 1:18:04)

Aaron Pike (USA, 1:20:02)

Daniel Romanchuk (USA, 1:21:36)

Simon Lawson (GBR, 1:25:06)

Jetze Plat (NED, 1:28:44)

WOMEN’S WHEELCHAIR DIVISION

Manuela Schär (SUI, 1:28:17)

Tatyana McFadden (USA, 1:31:30)

Jenna Fesemyer (USA, 1:33:50)

Catherine Debrunner (SUI, 1:36:47)

Merle Menje (GER, 1:42:12)

SHARE YOUR EXPERIENCE

Stay up to date with the latest race news and inspiration by following the Bank of America Chicago Marathon on social media! Tag your race weekend content with #MyChicagoMarathon and #OneofAMillion for the chance to be featured on our channels.

The 2007 Chicago Marathon was marked by historic heat. Temperatures soared into the high 80s and combined with high humidity, which forced organizers to halt the race for the first time in its history. Participants were rerouted to Grant Park and instructed to stop running as the heat was too intense to ensure their safety.

The wheelchair race saw exciting performances, with Australia’s Kurt Fearnley setting a new course record with his speedy 1:28:06 and three-time Chicago champion Amanda McGrory capturing her first title.

On October 1, only six days before the race, Bank of America completed its acquisition of LaSalle Bank and set the stage for its future involvement with the historic Marathon.

ONE OF A MILLION

Wolfe began running around 2006, after college, and completed her first Bank of America Chicago Marathon in 2013. When she was hired at the bank in 2017, she felt like she already knew the company.

Arriving to work at 110 N. Wacker in downtown Chicago, Wolfe appreciated how the race course was woven into the design of the building—each floor features a different section of the race. And employees are encouraged to participate as runners or volunteers; when Wolfe finished last year, her co-worker slipped the finisher’s medal around her neck.

Some marathoners return to the office Monday with no recognition of their weekend feat. But that’s not the case for Bank of America employees like Chrissy Wolf, Vice President, Leasing Sales Specialist.

2008

After qualifying for and completing her first Boston Marathon this spring, Wolfe will run her ninth Chicago this fall. Along the way, she’s inspired several colleagues to join her at the starting line. “They can see how much running has given me, and they want to have the same joy,” she says.

Registration for the 2008 Chicago Marathon closed in a record-setting for

Event Alert System was introduced following the cancellation of the 2007 Chicago Marathon due to heat.

Help protect the nation’s top athletes

Sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) can happen to anyone, anywhere. A victim’s chance of survival decreases for every minute without treatment.1

Public access to automated external defibrillators (AEDs), high-quality CPR and quick treatment is vital for better patient outcomes. Whether it’s SCA, respiratory or an opioidinduced arrest, empower your team to tackle emergencies.

LIFEPAK®

1. Automatically deliver a shock with a fully automatic model when needed and continue chest compressions during rhythm analysis with cprINSIGHT® analysis technology

2. Switch between two pre-set languages

3. Child mode: delivers lower energy levels and CPR guidance appropriate for children

4. Save time and resources by remotely monitoring AED status and supply expirations with LIFELINKcentral™ AED program manager

5. Low cost of ownership: four-year battery and electrode replacement

1. Durable: defend your device from water and dust with the highest level of protection (IP56)

2. Lightweight: 2.4 pounds

3. Low cost of ownership: Pad-Pak includes the electrodes and battery in one single-use cartridge (four years)

4. Optional Pediatric-Pak: reduces energy level for children

5. Two-button operation: semi-automatic AED prompts user to push the shock button

CHICAGO TRANSIT SYSTEM

On an average weekday, nearly 1.6 million passengers get a ride from the country’s second-largest public transportation system. With 145 train stations and more than 10,000 bus stops, the Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) can take you almost anywhere you need to go—including, for spectators, to multiple cheering spots along the course. Head to page 72 for a detailed list of CTA stations near the course.

The Chicago Marathon saw exciting growth in the official Charity Program, with 8,500 participants raising more than $10 million for local, national and global causes.

Olympic Marathon gold medalist Sammy Wanjiru of Kenya attempted to break Haile Gebrselassie’s 2:03:59 world record. A er a blistering first half, the pace slowed and, while the record was no longer in sight, Wanjiru came away with the win and carved a second off the course record.

WANJIRU AND KEBEDE BATTLE TO THE FINISH

Sammy Wanjiru of Kenya, the 2008 Olympic silver medalist, didn’t have high hopes for the 2010 Bank of America Chicago Marathon. He’d had foot and back injuries and a stomach bug three weeks prior. But he nonetheless kept up with Ethiopian Tsegaye Kebede until the final mile—and then, the race was on. Wanjuri surged ahead, then Kebede reclaimed the lead again and again and again. As the pair headed up the small hill at Roosevelt Road, Wanjiru found one last gear and finally left Kebede behind, eventually earning his epic win by 19 seconds in 2:06:24.

CHICAGO RIVER

Environmental efforts have transformed the once-polluted Chicago River into a home for a growing number of wildlife species. With the completion of the Chicago Riverwalk in 2016, the waterway’s banks have become the city’s “second shoreline”—another spot for a meal, a run or a moment of relaxation and reflection. Chicago Marathoners cross the Chicago River six times on their 26.2-mile journey.

Australia’s Kurt Fearnley won a tight wheelchair race with just six seconds separating the top four finishers. His time of 1:29:18 was five seconds faster than the ageless Heinz Frei of Switzerland, who edged Joshua George of the U.S. for second.

Kenya’s Moses Mosop surged to a new men’s course record of 2:05:37, breaking Sammy Wanjiru’s two-year-old mark.

Advocate became the health care partner of the Chicago Marathon.

ONE OF A MILLION

She returned in 2009 and kept going. Three months after her first half marathon in 2014, her husband Dan was diagnosed with cancer. Running served as a stress reliever, and when he passed away less than a year later, a place to process grief.

Soon afterward, Maldonado-Delwiche saw an expo booth for the Imerman Angels, which matches cancer patients and caregivers with mentors. She decided instantly to run the Bank of America Chicago Marathon for them. Her son joined her in Dan’s honor.

When Ruthie Maldonado-Delwiche was in the Air Force in the 1980s, running helped her explore and stay fit. After getting married and moving back to Chicago in 1988, she largely took a break from the sport.

Now, she’s finished nine marathons, 68 half marathons, and a 50K; through those races, she’s become a Chicago leader for Latinas Run and raised more than $14,000. “As long as God allows me to run, I will continue running with Imerman Angels,” she says.

Entries into the Chicago Marathon sold out in a record six days and ended with an all-time high of 37,475 finishers crossing the finish line in Grant Park.

Ethiopia’s Tsegaye Kebede took advantage of cool weather and a stacked elite field to slash 59 seconds from the course mark, becoming the first to break 2:05 in Chicago with his 2:04:38 performance.

The race’s top American was Oregon’s Dathan Ritzenhein, who finished in ninth place. His 2:07:47 was a personal best by more than two minutes and made him the third fastest American marathoner at the time.

ABBOTT HEALTH & FITNESS EXPO

The Abbott Health & Fitness Expo features more than 180 health and fitness industry exhibitors offering Bank of America Chicago Marathon merchandise and the latest in running footwear, apparel, nutrition and technology. The Health & Fitness Expo is free and open to the public. Packet Pick-up is located at the Abbott Health & Fitness Expo, McCormick Place. Participants must present their Packet Pick-up email along with a photo ID to receive their participant packet and participant bag.

LOCATION

McCormick Place, Lakeside Center 2301 S. Martin Luther King Dr. Chicago, IL 60616

HOURS OF OPERATION

Thursday, October 5 11 a.m. – 6 p.m.

Friday, October 6 9 a.m. – 6 p.m.

Saturday, October 7 9 a.m. – 6 p.m.

For a list of Abbott Health & Fitness Expo exhibitors, go to chicagomarathon.com/expo.

*For driving and parking, use the above address for the best access to the Abbott Health & Fitness Expo. If you are driving, follow the signs for Parking Lot C for the most convenient parking location. The publicly listed mailing address for McCormick Place is 2301 S. Lake Shore Drive.

Dennis Kimetto and Emmanuel Mutai become the first two athletes in history to break 2:04 in the same race on a record-eligible course.

Kenya’s Dennis Kimetto smashed the men’s course record with a 2:03:45 performance, taking 53 seconds off the previous mark set in 2012.

Tatyana McFadden won her third straight Chicago Marathon in a course record time of 1:42:35, taking down the previous mark set in 1992.

KIPCHOGE’S FIRST ABBOTTWMM WIN

Now widely regarded as the greatest marathoner of all time, Eliud Kipchoge’s reign over the Abbott World Marathon Majors—at this point, he’s claimed 10 victories—began right here in Chicago. At age 29 he ran 2:04:11, already displaying his trademark smile as he barreled alone toward the finish line.

The Chicago Marathon exceeded 40,000 finishers for the first time. The registration process for the event moved to a guaranteed and non-guaranteed entry drawing when demand to participate exceeded the entries available.

ONE OF A MILLION

2014, he’d come in second. In 2015, he wanted to be back on top.

His competitors, including four-time champion and Illini superstar Josh George, didn’t make it easy. At the turn from Roosevelt Road onto Columbus Drive, 11 men pushed within seconds of each other. Ultimately, Fearnley charged ahead, breaking the tape by two seconds in 1:30:46.

Australian wheelchair racer Kurt Fearnley knew what it took to win Chicago. He’d done it four times before, between 2007 and 2011. But in 2013 and

Born in a small town called Carcoar without the lower portion of his spine, Fearnley found wheelchair sports in his teens and quickly excelled. By the end of his more than 20-year career, he had three Paralympic golds, two Commonwealth Games golds, and more than 40 marathon victories to his name. Now, he’s a motivational speaker, author, podcast and television host and a disability rights advocate.

For the first time in more than two decades, pacesetters were not at the helm of the race. In a strategic competition up front, the men’s race saw a Kenyan sweep, with Dickson Chumba running away from the field in 2:09:25 and Sammy Kitwara and Sammy Ndungu closely behind.

Kurt Fearnely of Australia beat his competitors to the line in 1:30:46, earning his fi h career Chicago Marathon victory. In a photo finish for second place, Marcel Hug of Swizerland held off 2014 champion Joshua George of the U.S., both clocking 1:30:48.

On the 10th anniversary of her victory in Chicago, Deena Kastor of the U.S. finished in seventh place in 2:27:47, breaking the American Master’s Record of 2:28:40 set by Colleen De Reuk at the 2005 Chicago Marathon.

GRANT PARK

Since 1994, Chicago Marathoners have started and finished at this lakeshore gem, lovingly called “Chicago’s Front Yard.” Within its 313 acres are many of the city’s most recognizable attractions, including Buckingham Fountain; Maggie Daley Park, with its playgrounds and ice-skating ribbon; and the Museum Campus, home to the Art Institute of Chicago, Field Museum of Natural History, Shedd Aquarium and Adler Planetarium.

For the second consecutive year, race organizers did not use pacesetters, resulting in championship style racing and head-to-head competition. The men’s race saw a new champion crowned as 2012 Olympic marathon silver medalist Abel Kirui of Kenya held off defending champion Dickson Chumba, also of Kenya, down the homestretch, with 2:11:23 and 2:11:26, respectively.

In the women’s wheelchair competition, Tatyana McFadden of the U.S. defended her title, beating Switzerland’s Manuela Schär by one second in 1:42:28, taking home her sixth straight victory and her seventh win at the Chicago Marathon.

Kenya's Florence Kiplagat led a pack of women aggressively through the first 19 miles on a sub-2:22 pace and then threw down a 5:10 mile to break away from the pack and defend her title in 2:21:32.

ONE OF A MILLION

Maldonado has been an executive producer of Telemundo’s race coverage since it began in 2017, though nearly everyone on staff plays a role, she says. Planning starts about a year in advance and ramps up as the race nears, culminating in a 5 a.m. call time on race day.

Working closely with NBC—the stations share cameras and other resources—Telemundo’s team of Spanish-speaking hosts, sports analysts and onthe-street reporters cover events as they unfold. Last year, Diego Estrada, a Mexican-born elite marathoner who’s run Chicago three times, rode a motorcycle in front of the lead athletes and provided expert analysis in Spanish and English.

More than one-fourth of Chicago’s residents are Hispanic or Latino, and more runners come to the race from Mexico than any other country. So, to Diana Maldonado, it made perfect sense to broadcast the Marathon in Spanish on Telemundo.

Each year, the audience has grown. Maldonado isn’t surprised, given the inspirational nature of the race and the diversity of the participants. “Running is something that unites people across the world,” she says.

The men’s race saw the first American champion crowned since 2002 as three-time Olympian Galen Rupp surged with three miles to go, crushing the field behind him to capture his first Abbott World Marathon Majors victory in 2:09:20.

Tatyana McFadden defended her title in a photo finish, taking home her seventh straight victory and her eighth win at the Bank of America Chicago Marathon, while setting a course record in 1:39:15.

The Chicago Marathon debuted a Spanish-language broadcast with broadcast partner Telemundo

ROMANCHUK’S FIRST ABBOTTWMM WIN

The latest wheelchair-racing champion to emerge from the University of Illinois, Daniel Romanchuk was just 20 when he defeated the Swiss “Silver Bullet,” Marcel Hug, in a sprint finish. It was the first of many victories to come. Romanchuk won Chicago again in 2019 and 2021, en route to eight total Abbott World Marathon Major victories so far.

The men’s competition welcomed a new champion, and one of its youngest, 20-year-old Daniel Romanchuk from the famed University of Illinois Wheelchair Racing Team. Romanchuk outsprinted Marcel Hug in a duel to the finish line, winning 1:31:34 to the Silver Bullet’s 1:31:35.

Mo Farah of Great Britian dismantled the European record to run the eighth-fastest time in Chicago Marathon history, 2:05:11, against a stacked field of competitors: 11 men all with sub-2:08 personal bests.

Biofreeze became the pain relief partner of the Chicago Marathon.

SUSTAINABILITY HIGHLIGHTS

21,882 pounds of produce and packaged food from Runner Refresh donated to the Greater Chicago Food Depository following the 2022 event

740 pounds of water donated to the Chicago Food Sovereignty Coalition

149 metric tons of emissions offset with Native from our 2022 elite athlete field (INCLUDE IVE LOGO)

25 percent of post-consumer content included in the 2022 participant bags

400 Metric tons of CO2e emissions saved by switching from printed event guides to digital event guides

100

Bags of Heatsheets and other LDPE material collected and recycled as part of the event’s Blankets to Boards program, which turns collected materials into composite wood boards for benches in local community garden

18 tons of clothing from the start line donated to IL AMVETS

10

36 tons of material diverted from the landfill through our recycling and composting programs

4

A record 45,932 participants crossed the finish line in Grant Park, setting a new event record.

The Bank of America Chicago Marathon launched the 2020 Virtual Experience a er the cancellation of the 2020 event in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. The 2020 Bank of America Chicago Marathon Virtual Experience was a week-long celebration that brought the spirit of the Marathon to runners around the world.

2019 2020

The Chicago Marathon became an early signatory of the United Nation’s Sports for Climate Action initiative, furthering the Marathon’s commitment to sustainability.

Brigid Kosgei delivered on pre-race talk of a potential world record, shattering Paula Radcliffe’s world record, 2:15:25, with a jaw-dropping time of 2:14:04. She also swept away Chicago's long-standing course record from October 13, 2002, 2:17:18, on its 17th anniversary.

BROADCAST

Cheer on this year’s Bank of America Chicago Marathon participants from home by following TV and radio coverage of the event.

WATCH LIVE

NBC 5 Chicago, Telemundo Chicago and TeleXitos will provide complete live TV coverage and live streaming of the Bank of America Chicago Marathon in English and Spanish. The NBC 5 Chicago, Telemundo Chicago and TeleXitos live television broadcasts will air from 7 a.m. – 11 a.m. (U.S. Central Time) and the live stream will be available at nbcchicago.com and telemundochicago.com, on the NBC 5 and Telemundo Chicago apps and on the stations’ Roku and Apple TV channels, from 7 a.m. – 3 p.m. (U.S. Central Time).

LISTEN LIVE

670 The Score Sports Radio will provide complete live radio coverage of the Bank of America Chicago Marathon on race day from 7 a.m. to 11 a.m. (U.S. Central Time). Listen to Josh Liss and expert analysts provide a play-by-play of all the exciting action. Download the free Audacy app to listen from anywhere.

Tune in at 7 a.m. on Saturday, September 23 and Saturday, September 30 to listen to the Bank of America Chicago Marathon preview shows featuring running experts and Bank of America Chicago Marathon Executive Race Director Carey Pinkowski. A post-race show will air on Saturday, October 14 recapping the exciting moments from Marathon Sunday.

The professional division races saw new champions as Ruth Chepngetich of Kenya ran away with the victory in 2:22:31 and Seifu Tura of Ethiopia accelerated to the finish in 2:06:12.

A er 728 days, the Bank of America Chicago Marathon returned to in-person racing with a reduced field of 26,000 participants to allow for social distancing amid the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.

Tatyana McFadden won her ninth Chicago Marathon title, becoming the most-decorated Chicago Marathon champion

SPONSORS OFFICIAL

SUPPORTING

MEDIA

ASSOCIATE

Blue Plate, Breitling, Clif Bar & Company, CulturaLink, Deloitte, FitVine Wine, Hilton Chicago, Intelligentsia Coffee & Tea, Inc., Jewel-Osco, Michigan Apple Committee, Millennium Parking Garages, Stryker

VENDOR PARTNERS

Art Institute of Chicago, Chiquita Banana, City Scents, Dick’s Sporting Goods, Divvy, Fleet Feet Chicago, haku, iTab, Larsen Packaging Products, Inc., Mamava, MarathonFoto, My Custom Sports Chair, Polar Beverages, StretchLab, TSMGI, That’s It, Verse Chocolate, Yakult U.S.A., Inc

COMMUNITY PARTNERS

ONE OF A MILLION

Bruno applied for the American Development program at the Bank of America Chicago Marathon and noticed the non-binary option. The category is important, they say, “for the sake of everyone being able to run as they want to run.”

Bruno felt connected to Chicago from the time they stepped off the plane, a feeling that only grew during the race as the city’s vibrant diversity revealed itself. When Bruno struggled, the crowd lifted them up. Signs in Spanish in the Pilsen neighborhood—including one that read “Sin miedo,” or “Don’t be afraid”—made them feel at home.

Running took Blank Bruno from a dark time in their early 20s to a newfound place of gratitude and health. After completing their hometown marathon in El Paso, Texas, in 2:44:13 in February 2022,

Despite some rough patches, Bruno crossed the line in 2:47:12 to win the race’s first non-binary competition. And in another victory, the experience taught them about keeping the sport in perspective. “Running should be an endeavor of fun, without expectations. I have the entire city to thank for this crucial lesson,” they say.

KIA all-electric vehicles were used in the event’s lead vehicle procession for the first time.

Emily

set the women’s American record with a time of 2:18:29.

For the first time, participants had the opportunity to select non-binary as a gender identity at the point of registration.

CHICAGO STAR

Chicagoans take pride in their city and their flag, which you’ll spot on buildings, souvenirs and even tattoos. Each of the banner’s four red stars represents a historical event in civic history. They stand for, from left to right: Fort Dearborn, an Army outpost first built in 1803; the Great Chicago Fire of 1871; the World’s Columbian Exposition of 1893; and the Century of Progress Exposition of 1933-34.

Event organizers launched the inaugural Bank of America Chicago Distance series to link their other events, including the Bank of America Shamrock Shuffle and Bank of America Chicago 13.1, culminating at the Chicago Marathon.

The Chicago Marathon prepares to welcome its one millionth finisher at the 45th running of the race.

CITY AGENCIES

CITY AGENCIES

JAMIE RHEE, COMMISSIONER

Department of Aviation

ERIN HARKEY, COMMISSIONER

Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events

RICH GUIDICE, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

JOSE TIRADO, ACTING EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Office of Emergency Management and Communications

ANNETTE NANCE-HOLT, FIRE COMMISSIONER Chicago Fire Department

RACHEL ARFA, COMMISSIONER Mayor’s Office for People with Disabilities

DAVID BROWN, POLICE SUPERINTENDENT Chicago Police Department

FIKIRTE WAGWA, MPH, COMMISSIONER

LARRY SNELLING, POLICE SUPERINTENDENT ACTING COMMISSIONER

Department of Public Health

TOM CARNEY, ACTING COMMISSIONER

GIA BIAGI, COMMISSIONER Department of Transportation

ROSA ESCAREÑO, GENERAL SUPERINTENDENT & CEO Chicago Park District

DORVAL R. CARTER, JR., PRESIDENT Chicago Transit Authority

COLE STALLARD, COMMISSIONER

Department of Streets and Sanitation

MAYOR BRANDON JOHNSON

ALDERPERSON BRIAN HOPKINS, 2ND WARD

ALDERPERSON PAT DOWELL, 3RD WARD

ALDERPERSON LAMONT J. ROBINSON, 4TH WARD

ALDERPERSON NICOLE LEE, 11TH WARD

ALDERPERSON BYRON SIGCHO LOPEZ, 25TH WARD

ALDERPERSON WALTER BURNETT, JR., 27TH WARD

ALDERPERSON JASON ERVIN, 28TH WARD

ALDERPERSON BRENDAN REILLY, 42ND WARD

ALDERPERSON TIMMY KNUDSEN, 43RD WARD

ALDERPERSON BENNETT R. LAWSON, 44TH WARD

ALDERPERSON ANGELA CLAY, 46TH WARD

conquer

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