chi.run: The Ultimate Chicago Marathon Resource

chi.run is an independent Chicago Marathon guide written by Alex, an Elmhurst-based runner who finished the 2024 Chicago Marathon in 3:54:29 and is registered for 2026. Everything on this site is based on real experience, local knowledge, and first-hand race reporting.

Chicago Marathon Guides

Comprehensive guides covering every aspect of race week and race day for the Bank of America Chicago Marathon.

Registration and Lottery Guide - How to enter, qualifying standards, and what first-timers need to know
The Course - Mile-by-mile breakdown by neighborhood, elevation, crowds, and where GPS gets unreliable
Spectator Guide - Where to stand, how to move between spots, and transit tips from two years of experience
Race Day Logistics - Corral access, gear check, transportation, and morning timing
Chicago Marathon Weather History - Temperature and conditions data going back decades
Boston Qualifying at Chicago - BQ standards, course strategy, and what to expect
Training Overview - Plans, groups, and what worked during a real Chicago training cycle

Chicago Running

Beyond the marathon, chi.run covers the broader Chicago running scene including local races, run clubs, and routes.

Chicago Run Clubs - Directory of 63 run clubs across the city from beginner-friendly to competitive
Chicago Race Calendar - Local races throughout the year
Chicago Lakefront Trail Guide - 18 miles of flat running along Lake Michigan with turnaround points and parking
Chicago 13.1 Half Marathon Guide - Course, corrals, and race day tips for the June half marathon
Shamrock Shuffle Guide - Chicago's iconic 8K race in Grant Park

Marathon Gear

Personally tested gear recommendations from someone who has actually trained and raced in it. No sponsored content.

Marathon Gear Guide - Shoes, GPS watches, hydration, and accessories tested during real training and racing including the ASICS Superblast, Brooks Glycerin 22, Nike Vaporfly 3, Adidas Adios Pro 4, Garmin Forerunner 965, and FlipBelt

About chi.run

chi.run is not affiliated with the Chicago Marathon or Bank of America. It is an independent resource built by a local runner for runners training for Chicago. Alex completed the 2024 Chicago Marathon in 3:54:29 qualifying via a 1:43:29 half marathon, and is running the full 2026 Bank of America Chicago Distance Series.