Bank of America Chicago Marathon - Chicago, Illinois - Running

The Bank of America Chicago Marathon is a Running race in Chicago, Illinois consisting of a Marathon.

The Bank of America Chicago Marathon is known for its flat and fast course that starts and finishes in Grant Park and travels through one of the world's most magnificent cities. The course has produced four world records, several national records, and countless personal bests. Runners enjoy the support of 1.7 million spectators as they run through 29 neighborhoods.

Running the Bank of America Chicago Marathon is the pinnacle of achievement for elite athletes and everyday runners alike. Since its inaugural running in 1977, the Bank of America Chicago Marathon has developed a global reputation for its fast, record-setting course. Year after year the Bank of America Chicago Marathon hosts representatives from more than 100 countries and all 50 of the United States to compete on this world stage to accomplish a personal dream by reaching the finish line in Grant Park.

As the second largest member of the World Marathon Major series, Chicago has several compelling factors in its favor. The first is its fast, flat course which takes runners on a scenic tour of the city's ethnically diverse neighborhoods. The second is its Midwestern hospitality, on full display with jovial strangers congratulating you for hours after the race. And the third is its sensible acceptance rate, which rivals Berlin as the highest among the World Marathon Majors at > 50% for the 2015 event. From its wide streets featuring ample elbow room to its finish in Grant Park, Chicago offers everything you could want in a big-city race.