CHICAGO (WLS) — Tens of thousands of runners stepped off for the 47th Bank of America Chicago Marathon on Sunday morning.
More than 50,000 athletes from all 50 states and 100 countries took a 26.2-mile tour of Chicago.
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It all started at 7:30 a.m. in Grant Park, right by the Art Institute.
This year’s Chicago Marathon witnessed record-breaking performances for several athletes. The long-standing American record in Chicago has been broken after more than 20 years.
The 47th Bank of America Chicago Marathon concluded with a triumphant victory lap. Jacob Kiplimo, winning in only his second career marathon, almost shattered the world record in the men’s category. His time now stands as the fastest in Uganda.
“I didn’t know that I was inside the world record, but for me, I was just keeping the pace to finish it, as well,” Kiplimo said.
Hawi Feysa became the first Ethiopian woman since 2017 to win in Chicago, securing her first major marathon title and improving her time from the previous year by two minutes.
Runners spent time in 29 of Chicago’s vibrant neighborhoods, with at least 1 million people expected to line the race route.
“So much energy and love here in the community, it just pushes you all the way through to the finish line,” runner Henry Norris said.
Beyond athletic achievements, the Chicago Marathon is a significant fundraiser, generating millions of dollars each year for various nonprofits while contributing nearly $700 million to the host city.
“Nearly every city agency, alongside our retailers, local businesses, and residents, participates. It’s truly an extraordinary team effort,” stated Carey Pinkowski, executive director of the Bank of America Chicago Marathon.
American runners also set impressive records. Connor Mantz surpassed the standing men’s American record in Chicago, securing his position as the fastest men’s marathon runner in U.S. history.
“So, having it slowly in my mind and eventually hit the goal, it feels really good,” Mantz said. “I have been eyeing this record for a very long time, and maybe when it was an unrealistic goal, I think it has always been on my mind. So, having it slowly in my mind and eventually hit the goal, it feels really good.”
