The 45th Chicago Marathon saw the men’s world record broken by Kelvin Kiptum of Kenya in 2 hours 35 seconds. Rich and I were slightly farther back in the field of runners but enjoyed it just as much as Kiptum did.
The weather was ideal for running a marathon in, slightly chilly, so plenty of layers were discarded at the start for local charities.
The course starts and finishes in Grant Park. It heads into the Loop on its way to Lincoln Park past the home of the Chicago Cubs. Through the Old Town then winds through Greek Town, Pilsen, Little Italy and Chinatown. Next is Bronzeville, past Soldier Fields, home to Chicago Bears before the relief and joy of the finish line back in Grant Park. A fantastic long straight finish to enjoy our achievement.
Throughout the course we crossed six bridges across the Chicago River which flows into Lake Michigan. The spectator support and placards were simply amazing, the finish spectacular.
The Road Runners vest drew the attention of fellow English runners from Southampton , Lymington, Portsmouth and Oxford. Our aim was to enjoy the marathon which we did . Lots of laughter, amazing buildings and people to talk to along the way.
Would we do it again? Yes, most definitely!
Jane and Rich finished the Chicago marathon in 4:46:16, well done guys!
Our amazing Jane has now completed the following marathon majors… Chicago, Tokyo, New York, London and Berlin. Look out Boston!!
