r/ChicagoMarathon

I'm dealing with some health issues that have made my initial training leading up to my official training very difficult. As a result, I'm considering canceling my entry for the 2026 marathon. I understand that cancelling now will defer my entry until 2027, which I'm unsure will be a realistic option at this point. Instead of cancelling + deferring and paying the entry fees for 2026 and 2027, could I just eat the 2026 entry fee and not show up to the race?

Duffy's Tavern is looking to see if anyone wants to form a run club. We are located at 420 west Diversey right off the lake front trail. Hoping to have folks start and stop at the bar. We have a huge back room to warm up and stretch, then hopefully finish back here for discounted drinks and grub!

the chicago marathon this fall will be my first ever marathon and I’m fundraising with the Girl Scouts! I’ve never raised this much money before so if anyone has advice that would be greatly appreciated!!

Just wanted to share that I have been refreshing the hotel portal just for a few days now and one popped up with availability this morning ($350/night, would've been $700 booked elsewhere). I originally booked a refundable room at the Marriott near O'Hare the other day just for peace of mind, and now I can go ahead and cancel that.

I'm not sure if I got lucky, but if you're struggling with accommodations and costs, I recommend bookmarking the portal and checking each morning. I'm sure many more will become available as we get closer to the date.

I'm trying to find a hotel near the starting line but they are all like a million bucks. Would it be best to wait and hope prices go down or what is best thing to do in this case? (Any hotel recommendations that aren't super far and not super expensive?)