Whether you are looking to run your first 5K or are a seasoned athlete, Chicago has a running race for everyone this year. Most races include running and walking options. Have a race you would like to promote? E-mail your race's details to Chicago@aboutguide.com. Happy running!
The Ravenswood Run is a neighborhood 5K that benefits the Ravenswood Community Services Food Pantry at All Saints Episcopal Church and has raised over $200,000 in funds to provide food to low income families, as well as healthcare services to low income teens through Student Health Centers at Amundsen and Lake View High Schools. This spring race runs through some of the most picturesque neighborhood streets in Chicago. Start time is 8 a.m. at the intersection of Wilson and Hermitage. Cost is $35.
Link for registration information. Looking for a group to help you train for the Ravenswood Run? Contact Chicago Endurance Sports to learn about spring training programs including its No Boundaries training program. (
Here is a blog I wrote on the No Boundaries training program.) Tip: Complement your training program with free yoga classes at the
Whole Foods Market Lincoln Park's Wellness Club.
The Fleet Feet Sports Soldier Field 10 Mile starts outside of Soldier Field and travels along the southern portion of Chicago's lakefront. Participants run through Soldier Field with a finish on the 50-yard Line in the center of the field. The Kids Blitz ($18) gives kids ages 5 – 12 a chance to run down Soldier Field. There is also the Hut-Hut Hike ($20) - a variable distance walk around Soldier Field and Chicago's beautiful museum campus. Routes give participants an opportunity to explore one of Chicago's most historic and scenic lakefront parks and a post-race party with food, sponsor booths, and live music. Soldier Field 10 Mile registration costs ($80) include participant technical shirt; 2012 Commemorative Stadium Blanket distributed after the finish to 10 Mile Race participants; personalized bib number for 10 Mile Race participants (must register by April 15, 2012); finishers medal (10 Mile Race and Kids Blitz participants); post race runner refresh bag; and post-race party.
New year, new event! In years past, Fleet Feet Sports brought you the Fleet Feet Sports Women's 5K & 10K in mid-July. They've changed the date to Sunday, June 24, 2012, and the venue to Grant Park. But, the most significant difference is the distance of the race: a half marathon. The Chicago Women's Half Marathon is an inaugural event for Chicago this year. You can register for individuals, Sister Teams (2 members), and Mother/Daughter Teams (2 members). All participants will receive a New Balance Tempo Sleeveless top, participant bag, 2012 commemorative item, finisher medal (half marathon participants only), and can enjoy post-race festivities after the run. Training programs start Tuesday, March 27 at the Fleet Feet Sports location in Old Town in Chicago, and Wednesday, March 28, at the Fleet Feet Sports Lincoln Square location.
Chicago Endurance Sports also has a training program for the race that begins around March 22. (
And check out these tips on running your first race.)
