Sports
Chicago Marathon Gathers Elite Field and 55,000 Runners
The Grant Park race features top contenders in the men's and women's divisions, broadcast details, and tips for the fast course.
The Chicago Marathon returns with over 55,000 runners from more than 100 countries and a powerhouse elite field. Explore the top contenders, broadcast streaming options, and practical tips to conquer the course.
The Chicago Marathon brings together more than 55,000 runners from over 100 countries for one of the fastest races on the global circuit. Starting and finishing in iconic Grant Park, the elite field kicks off the competition at 7:30 a.m. local time (9:30 a.m. Brasília time), promising an aggressive pace right from the opening miles.
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High-stakes battle in the men's and women's fields
In the men's division, the spotlight turns to heavy hitters vying for the top spot on the podium. Alongside athletes coming off impressive times in major marathons, the field features seasoned competitors such as Amos Kipruto, last year's Chicago runner-up, Bashir Abdi, a two-time Olympic medalist (silver and bronze), as well as Milkesa Mengesha and Tadesse Takele.
Among the women, the race promises to be just as fast. The start list includes Brigid Kosgei, a two-time Chicago champion and recent winner of the Tokyo and Shanghai marathons, who consistently delivers performances around the 2:14 mark. The women's field also showcases Ethiopian runner Hawi Feyssa, Megertu Alemu (World Athletics champion), Sutume Kebede, and Kenyan athlete Sharon Lokedi.
Course challenges, GPS glitches, and hydration
Known for its flat, fast course and wide avenues, Chicago poses unique challenges that demand attention from both amateur runners and the elite. Surrounded by high-rises, GPS signals frequently drop or fluctuate significantly along the streets, complicating real-time pace tracking on running watches.
To handle erratic watch readings, the race is officially marked in miles but includes reference markers every 5 km (such as km 5, 10, and 15). A popular trick among participants is picking up temporary pace tattoos at the race expo, which feature split conversions from miles to kilometers. For hydration, organizers provide paper cups—which can be pinched into a funnel shape for easier drinking on the move without choking—as well as dedicated refill stations for runners carrying their own bottles.
How to watch and registration for the next edition
In Brazil, live coverage of the race airs on ESPN and streams on Disney+, starting at 9:30 a.m. (Brasília time). In the United States, official broadcast coverage is provided by NBC 5 Chicago and Telemundo Chicago, with streaming available via Peacock. For runners planning future goals, registration and the non-guaranteed entry drawing for the next edition of the marathon are also already open.
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