The Chicago Marathon: The Course of Record-Breaking Achievements
Chicago Marathon
12 October 2025 Chicago, Cook, Illinois, United States 42km Road runningThe Chicago Marathon: The Course of Record-Breaking Achievements
The Chicago Marathon has become a stage for world records in recent years. Located in the heart of one of the most iconic cities in the United States, this marathon is one of the six “World Marathon Majors.” Every year, it attracts thousands of participants from all over the globe, hoping to beat their personal bests. Founded in 1905, the Chicago Marathon began humbly with only 15 runners, with just 7 crossing the finish line. After a hiatus in 1920, the race was revived in 1977, renamed the Mayor Daley Marathon in honor of the city’s former mayor, Richard Daley.
This event is also an excellent way to explore “The Windy City.” The city earned this nickname for multiple reasons, primarily due to its location alongside Lake Michigan, which experiences significant winds. The start and finish take place at the legendary Grant Park. Participants will follow a route that showcases over 29 neighborhoods! They’ll not only push their physical limits but will also enjoy a visual feast.
The Chicago Marathon has earned a reputation as an ultra-fast race, largely due to its flat course, allowing runners to push their boundaries. In 2023, Kelvin Kiptum made history by setting a new world record at this marathon, finishing in 2 hours and 35 seconds. In 2024, it was runner Ruth Chepngetich who made headlines, seizing the women’s world marathon record with an impressive time of 2 hours, 9 minutes, and 57 seconds, further proving the speed of the Chicago course.
Registering for the Chicago Marathon is no easy task; if you want to secure a spot, you’ll need to plan ahead! Dossards (race bibs) are quickly snapped up, and signing up often requires several months or even years of preparation. With limited spots available, a lottery system is in place, allowing the fortunate few to secure their place at the starting line. Alternatively, runners can qualify with a reference time: for example, men under 35 need to clock under 3 hours and 5 minutes, while women in the same age group should aim for 3 hours and 35 minutes.
Key Points
- The Chicago Marathon showcases a unique blend of architectural and cultural diversity. After a massive fire in 1871, Chicago rebuilt itself and became the birthplace of modern architecture. The race weaves through 29 distinct neighborhoods, featuring both cutting-edge architecture and numerous historical landmarks.
- Chicagoans are renowned for their boundless hospitality and enthusiasm! The race is energized by over a million spectators, bands, and DJs. The city’s atmosphere is infused with marathon spirit, highlighting to the world the magic of sports and celebration. Participants and supporters from all over the globe come together, encouraging and cheering each other on with the shared goal of conquering this challenge.
- The Chicago Marathon is known for its fast and flat course, reputed to be the fastest in the world. The men’s world record (Kelvin Kiptum, 2 hours and 35 seconds) and the women’s world record (Ruth Chepngetich, 2 hours 9 minutes and 56 seconds) were set in Chicago. This course has seen the establishment of four world records, indicating that more records could still be broken!
