Guide to the 2012 Chicago Marathon - Fast Facts

The Chicago Marathon started in 1977 with more than 4,000 runners and get this: had a $5 registration fee. That's hard to believe when you compare that price to today's fee of $145 for U.S. residents and $170 for those living elsewhere.

Since its humble beginnings, the Chicago Marathon has become a world-class marathon attracting the world's top runners, with a cap of 45,000 participants. Course distance is 26.2 miles with one of the world's flattest surfaces and unpredictable October weather conditions. In years past, the weather has been hot (in the 80s) or cold (in the 30s), so it is hard to know just what the weather will be like in October in Chicago.

For those who live in Chicago, the Chicago Marathon is a tradition, with residents lining the 26.2-mile course cheering on runners. The course goes through some of Chicago's most popular neighborhoods, including Lincoln Park, Little Italy, and more.

The next Bank of America Chicago Marathon will be held on Sunday, October 7, 2012.

The start and finish line will be in Grant Park on Columbus Drive near Buckingham Fountain.

Wheelchair start is at 7:20 a.m. (CDT)

Marathon start is at 7:30 a.m. (CDT)

Post race, celebrate with the 27th Mile Post-Race Party located in Grant Park's Butler Field. The outdoor party includes live entertainment and food and beverages (available for purchase). Runners can redeem the tear-off portion of their bib number for a complimentary 312 Urban Wheat Ale, courtesy of the Goose Island Beer Co.

The Chicago Marathon is known for its fast and flat course. According to the Chicago Marathon, elite athletes and amateurs annually target the race for its potential to generate personal, national and world records. In addition to its speed, the course offers a scenic tour of Chicago and its neighborhoods, as well as a convenient start and finish in Grant Park.

Check out the marathon's Spectator Guide that includes spectator viewing areas, information on tracking runners you will be watching, getting around Chicago, and more.

Registered marathon runners need to pick up their race packet, which includes their bid number, at the Chicago Marathon Expo at McCormick Place. When picking up their packet, marathon participants must present their confirmation ticket or e-mail along with a photo ID. If you are unable to pick up your packet, someone else can pick it up for you. That person must have your confirmation ticket or e-mail and their photo ID. Expo hours are Friday, October 5, from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Saturday, October 6, from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. The expo will include more than 175 exhibitors featuring running footwear, apparel, and more.

The Chicago Marathon requires has numerous volunteer opportunities. For more information, call 312-904-9800.

The first Chicago Marathon was promoted with the tag line, "The people’s race anyone can come and enjoy." That still holds true today.

Important spectator information can be found on the official 2012 Chicago Marathon Spectator Guide. If you are unable to see the marathon in person, NBC Chicago will be broadcasting the marathon starting at 7 a.m.

Because many of Chicago's streets will be closed during the marathon, it is recommended to take public transportation. (Tip: Fleet Feet Chicago (1620 N. Wells) is opening their store at 7 a.m. where they will have complimentary cow bells and signs and markers for spectators.)

There are several training programs available for the Chicago Marathon, including:

•A Do-it-yourself 17-week Bank of America Chicago Marathon Training Program sponsored by Nike and developed by Coach Jenny Hadfield, co-owner of Chicago Endurance Sports and columnist for Women's Running magazine and RunnersWorld.com. The program is available for beginner, intermediate, and advanced marathon runners.

•If you prefer to train with other people, check out Nike’s Official Bank of America Chicago Marathon Training Runs offered several days a week at various locations throughout Chicago and beyond. The 17-week training run program features long runs, tempo runs, and 3-, 5- and 7-mile routes, as well as shoe trials and clinics, post-run refreshments and seminars, and pace group leaders to prepare you for race day. Locations include:

Fleet Feet Sports, 1620 N. Wells St., Chicago, Mondays, 6:30 p.m., 312-587-3338

Running Away Multisport, 1634 North Ave., Chicago, Tuesdays, 6:30 p.m., 773-395-2929

NIKETOWN, 669 N. Michigan Ave., Chicago, Thursdays, 6:30 p.m., 312-642-6363

JBar, 610 N. Rush St. (adjacent to The James Hotel), Chicago, Saturdays, 6:30 a.m.

Naperville Running Company, 32 W. Jefferson Ave., Naperville, IL, Thursdays, 6:30 p.m., 630-357-1900