Race Day Timeline
Wake up, hydrate, and eat your tested pre-race breakfast 2–3 hours before your start time.
Get dressed, apply anti-chafe, check weather, and head toward Grant Park. Walk or take CTA. No driving.
Security screening and gear check. Expect lines; allow extra time. Only clear gear bags allowed. Plan your bathroom strategy early.
Start times by wave: Wave 1: 7:30 AM Wave 2: 8:00 AM Wave 3: 8:35 AM
Stick to your plan. Expect GPS drift early. Walk aid stations if needed. Enjoy the crowd energy through 29 neighborhoods.
Keep walking, hydrate, and take in the moment. Collect medal, snacks, and gear bag before exiting Grant Park.
Meet friends at Butler Field (letter markers). Rehydrate, stretch, and enjoy your celebration dinner downtown.
Race Day Quick List
- ✓Wave 1: 7:30 AM | Wave 2: 8:00 AM | Wave 3: 8:35 AM (confirm official schedule)
- ✓Security opens ~5:30 AM at Michigan Ave checkpoints
- ✓Gear check closes 7:00 AM
- ✓Plan to meet after the finish at Butler Field. Look at Letters on the Poles to help your family locate you.
- ✓CTA Red and Green Lines recommended
Bathroom Strategy
With 45,000+ runners, porta-potty lines get long. Read our Bathroom Survival Guide for insider tips on the shortest lines and secret locations.
Pro Tip:
Turn off auto-lap on your watch. Tall buildings near the start will confuse GPS. Use manual laps at course markers instead. Read our Watch & Tech Guide for more tips.
Reminder:
All details are unofficial. Always verify race day logistics with the official site before race weekend.