Bofa Chicago Marathon Distance Series and Event Guide

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Group of People Doing Marathon
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The BofA Chicago Marathon Distance Series is a series of events that culminates in the full marathon on October 9th.

The series includes a 5K, 10K, and half marathon, each with its own unique course and challenges.

The 5K is a great way to get a feel for the city's streets and test your endurance.

The 10K is a bit longer, but still a manageable distance for those looking to take their training to the next level.

The half marathon is a significant step up, but many runners find it a great way to prepare for the full marathon.

About the Marathon

The Bank of America Chicago Marathon is an iconic event that offers breathtaking views of the city's lakefront. Thousands of fans will be cheering you on along the course.

You'll have the opportunity to experience the city's vibrant energy and celebrate with fellow runners in Grant Park.

Marathon

The marathon is a major event, and to participate, you'll need to register for a spot. You can join Autism Speaks TeamUp and get guaranteed entry to the 2024 Chicago Marathon.

Credit: youtube.com, Marathon RACE PACE STRATEGY: How To PR Your Next Marathon

The team offers a 16-Week Marathon training plan with a certified running coach, which can be a huge help for new runners. This plan will guide you through your training and help you prepare for the big day.

Registration for the team is limited, and spots will be given on a first-come, first-served basis. You'll need to commit to raising a minimum of $1,750 for the team, and adhere to the fundraising deadlines.

If you already have an entry to the marathon, you can still join the team and won't be required to meet the fundraising minimum. This is a great option if you're already set for the event.

About This Event

The Bank of America Chicago Marathon is an event that has it all. Thousands of fans will be in the city to celebrate, creating an electric atmosphere.

The marathon takes place in a city that knows how to throw a party, with iconic streets and lakeshore views that will make your run even more scenic.

You'll have the opportunity to complete your journey to the finish line in Grant Park, a fitting finale to an incredible event.

Event Details

Credit: youtube.com, Bank Of America Chicago Marathon 2024 - Start & Finish

The Bank of America Chicago Marathon is a world-class event that takes place in a city that knows how to celebrate. Thousands of fans will be cheering you on to the finish line.

You'll get to experience the iconic streets of Chicago and take in the stunning lakeshore views. The event will culminate in Grant Park.

When Does It Start?

The Chicago Marathon starts in waves, beginning at the official start line in Grant Park.

You'll want to know the exact start times for the different waves and events. The marathon starts with the wheelchair and handcycle starts at 7:20 and 7:23 a.m. respectively.

The first wave, marked with red, starts at 7:30 a.m. followed by the second wave, marked with blue, at 8 a.m.

If you're planning to cheer on the runners, you'll want to know when spectator access to Grant Park begins, which is at 9:30 a.m.

The Abbott 27.2 Fest also starts at 9:30 a.m. and runs until 4 p.m., so you can grab a bite to eat or do some shopping while you're there.

Where to Watch the Marathon

People Doing Marathon
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If you're planning to watch the Chicago Marathon, you're in for a treat. The marathon route goes through 29 of Chicago's vibrant neighborhoods, giving you plenty of opportunities to explore different corners of the city.

You can cheer on runners closest to the start of the race at Grand Avenue, between Columbus Drive and State Street, near Mile 1, or anywhere along State Street, between Grand Avenue and Jackson Boulevard.

The Bank of America Cheer Zone at Michigan Avenue and Roosevelt Road is a great spot to view runners closest to the finish of the race. It's a designated area where you can cheer on runners as they cross the finish line.

There are several official cheer zones along the route, including the Bank of America Shamrock Shuffle Cheer Zone in Lincoln Park at the 8K mark and the Charity Block Party at Mile 15.

You can also catch the lively atmosphere in neighborhoods like Pilsen, where mariachi bands perform around Mile 19, and Chinatown, where lion dancers entertain near Mile 21.

A man running in a marathon with other runners
Credit: pexels.com, A man running in a marathon with other runners

To give runners a final burst of energy before the big finish, you can take the Orange Line to Halsted (Mile 20.5), the Green Line to 35th-Bronzeville-IIT (Mile 23), or the Red Line to Sox-35th (Mile 23.25).

Here are some key viewing areas to keep in mind:

  • Grand Avenue, between Columbus Drive and State Street, near Mile 1
  • State Street, between Grand Avenue and Jackson Boulevard
  • Bank of America Cheer Zone at Michigan Avenue and Roosevelt Road
  • Bank of America Shamrock Shuffle Cheer Zone in Lincoln Park at the 8K mark
  • Charity Block Party at Mile 15

Remember to check out the official course map or download the Chicago Marathon app for an interactive course map to help you navigate the route.

Bank of America 13.1

The Bank of America 13.1 is a unique and exciting event that takes place in the city of Chicago. It's a half marathon that offers a world-class experience, weaving through historic parks and boulevards on the West Side.

The 13.1-mile course starts and finishes in Garfield Park, with scenic loops through Humboldt and Douglass Parks. Participants can expect a scenic and challenging run.

The Bank of America 13.1 takes place on Sunday, June 1, 2025. Mark your calendars if you're planning to participate in this event.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I track someone running in the Chicago marathon?

Track a Chicago marathon runner using the Bank of America Chicago Marathon App, powered by Tata Consultancy Services. Download the app to stay connected with your participant in real-time

How much does it cost to run the Chicago marathon?

The cost to run the Chicago marathon is $245 for US residents and $255 for international residents. Entry fees vary based on residency, so check the official details for more information.

How long does it take to complete Chicago marathon?

To complete the Chicago marathon, participants have a time limit of 6 hours and 30 minutes. The course is designed to be completed at a pace of 15 minutes per mile.

Angie Ernser

Senior Writer

Angie Ernser is a seasoned writer with a deep interest in financial markets. Her expertise lies in municipal bond investments, where she provides clear and insightful analysis to help readers understand the complexities of municipal bond markets. Ernser's articles are known for their clarity and practical advice, making them a valuable resource for both novice and experienced investors.

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