It’s time to get down to business, because the Chicago Marathon is just 19 days away. I’ve had a couple of awesome weekends, back to back in Utah and Tennessee, but now I have to shift my focus to my next challenge.
Chicago! A city that will be completely new to me. I’ve only ever been in the airports there on layovers, and have never stepped foot in the city. I am so excited for this trip. A few weeks ago I got an email with my corral assignment, I will be starting in corral ‘D’. Then last night an email came with a link to the participant guidebook, which will also be mailed to me. Wow, this is getting serious.
Since I made my travel arrangements and booked my hotel many months ago, it’s time to really get my homework done.
I’ve been mapping out the area. Extensively checking out maps. I have figured out the ‘L’, and which train I need to take and to where upon arrival. I’ve got my bases covered on a late check out for Sunday, and how to get to Grant Park on foot from my hotel on race morning. I am trying to study all of the little details so that race weekend I will be as prepared as I can be.
My next focus will be on getting to and from the expo. I arrive very early on Friday morning, so it might make the most sense to just go directly to the expo when it opens. Gotta figure that one out.
Where to eat? I’ve even been looking at the best places to go to get authentic Chicago food. Deep dish pizza, etc.. I have to get a feel for the city before I get there, so studying city maps is critical.
I am enjoying the preparations. Have you ever run the Chicago marathon, or have a good knowledge of the city? I welcome any and all comments related to what might make my weekend there smoother, more fun or just all around more eventful. Please feel free to share your experiences.
I’ve never been to Chicago, but I hear nothing but great things about the Chicago Marathon! Fast, flat, scenic with 1000s and 1000s of people watching!
I saw somewhere that the number of spectators typically tops 1.5 million. That’s just crazy!
Oh wow…so millions! So crazy!
I hope to say hi to you. I will be cheering with the BibRave folks, so if you need something on the course let me know. Hope you can check out Navy Pier too.
Navy Pier? A really scenic spot? Gummi bears? Swedish fish are great late in the race. Where will you all be set up?
Navy pier – google it, there is always lots going on and a giant ferris wheel.
I am not sure the details of where we will be but I will add the fish & gummis to the list
🙂
also if you want relaxing, take an architectural tour on the Chicago River