You signed up, you trained, you sweated more than your share, you probably cussed a little (or a lot), you tapered and finally, Chicago Marathon race weekend is upon us! If you’re new to the Chicago Marathon, WELCOME! As you probably know, it’s one of the largest marathons in the world with over 45,000 runners.
Here are some last-minute tips for navigating race day.
The Race Expo
Hit up the expo at your earliest convenience. It’ll only get more and more crowded. If possible, take one of the shuttles that operates from various Chicago hotels. Worlds easier than trying to drive and park or enduring traffic in an Uber.
Have a plan for what you want/need to see at the expo. The sheer mass of the crowds can make you forget everything.
Come say hi to me in the Now Foods booth on Friday until 2pm.
Your marathon guide is your friend. Examine it closely. Race morning logistics can be a nightmare because so many streets are closed and there are SO many people. Allow yourself plenty of time to eat, get out of your hotel, hit the potty and make your way to your corral.
The Race Start
Try your best not to go out too fast. The crowded course helps in this regard.
Because of the tall buildings and that notorious tunnel in the first mile, your GPS will be mostly useless. Know this going in.
Run the tangents. There are many turns on the Chi Marathon course. The blue line on the pavement is there to help you.
Take in the sights and sounds of each distinct neighborhood.
I’ll look something like this, except Erica won’t be with me cuz she’s running this year. And I’ll be bundled up cuz surprise! Mom Nature is making good on the cool weather I ordered. You’re welcome.
At mile 13 I’ll be cheering for you on your right. Give me a wave. I’ll give you mo cowbell.
Other than the bridges, the course is flat and fast. That said, the Roosevelt Rd. bridge at mile 26 isn’t called Mt. Roosevelt for nothing. Have your head around it. After that it’s a straight shot in.
I remember thinking my first Chi medal from 2007 was the most special thing ever. I’ll bet you’ll feel the same.
Alright I’ll keep this short and sweet. Have a great race, soak it all in, and know that the people of Chicago have your back. Remember the hard part was all the months of training you already put in. This final 26.2 is the victory lap!
Have you run the Chicago Marathon? Are you running it this year? What’s your favorite race memory?
My favorite race! And if I could run it again, I would. I’ll just have to be content to spectate with you in the BPB! I’ll be the one in the gray puffy coat.
See you Sunday!
Will you guys be at mile 13 or by Union Station? That’s like 13.5 now I think!
I have so many friends running it this year.Wish I was there to spectate. Have a fun weekend
I’m getting to the expo today around 1/1:30! I don’t know if I’ll make it to the Now Foods booth by 2, but if I can I’ll try to swing by and say hello 🙂
Great tips Marcia! I will probably miss you at the expo but will keep an eye out for you at 13!
Someday! I’m gonna save/pin this post for future reference 😉 I know so many people running Chicago this weekend, it’s crazy.
How exciting – I love this race!! I remember 2012 and you snagging that ‘secret’ spot and getting there and feeling all sorts of special because you knew all the ins and outs and got me right where I needed to be. I loved running through the neighborhoods and couldn’t wait for the next. I think the only stretch that was oh so blah was that mile 23 ish section. Oh, and Mr. PUMPKINHEAD!!! I loved him so much! Have a blast spectating and cheering!!
xo
What, there’s a hill at mile 26? Sounds like the Birmingham marathon, which had a sharp incline just before the final strait! Great tips here and hope you had a great time spectating!