🇺🇸Chicago, USA
Bank of America Chicago Marathon
Oct 11, 2026
Distance
42.2 km
Elevation gain
30 m
Terrain
Road
Entry type
Lottery
PB potential
World-record territory — one of the fastest courses on the planet
Beginner friendly
Great for newcomers — manageable course, strong support
About this race
Chicago's near-sea-level course and minimal elevation change make it consistently one of the fastest World Majors. The loop format — starting and finishing at Grant Park — takes runners through 29 distinct neighbourhoods, each with its own character: the noise of Wrigleyville, the energy of Pilsen, the polish of Lincoln Park. October temperatures are typically ideal for fast running (10–18°C at the gun), and the flat profile allows runners to settle into goal pace from the first kilometre. The lottery fields roughly 45,000 runners from hundreds of countries. For Americans chasing a Boston qualifier, Chicago is often the most accessible route — ample charity places are available for those who miss the lottery. Mile 18 through Chinatown is famous for the deafening noise and drumlines.
Typical race-day weather
Temperature
10–18°C
Humidity
50–65%
Conditions
Clear to partly cloudy, cool mornings
Wind
10–20 km/h variable
Qualifies for
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