PARTICIPANT QUOTES

PARTICIPANT QUOTES

I think If I were to break it all down to one word, I would say running gave me direction. Direction in a time where life seemed directionless. There's tremendous value in that, and it all goes back to our simple sport.

ANDY RIDDLER MILWAUKEE, WI

At every marathon I am inspired by the other runners. There is an electricity in the air. People of all different skills, sizes, abilities… But all committed to achieving a personal goal they previously never believed possible. The attitude is contagious.

KYLE ALFRIEND DUBLIN, OH ”

Running was EVERYTHING during those early pandemic days. I was running more than 40 miles a week because it was something to DO at a time when there was so little going on. It felt like I could still achieve something when everything in the world at the time was on hold and so uncertain.

LEESA ABELL, WAYNESVILLE, OH”

I am looking forward to the support of my fellow runners and the crowds. Last year’s virtual marathons showed that a marathon is not just running 26.2 miles.

DOUG RUBINSON

” ” Running has helped keep me from feeling lost and alone during these times. I have picked up a whole new family within my running community. ” WILLIAM DUCASSE

Chicago needs no introduction and has a special meaning for me as it reminds me the period I lived in the U.S. and used to visit it frequently. I have been preparing for it since 2019 and have chosen Chicago amongst others because of its great and fast course.

DANILO BILTON SÃO PAULO, SÃO PAULO

Running has given me the confidence, both physically and emotionally, to believe in myself and to know I will get through whatever is thrown at me. Being in the pain cave or pushing through being uncomfortable during runs reminds me that everything is temporary! KERI SHAW AUSTIN, TX ” Running the Chicago Marathon has been a goal of mine for many years. Ever since visiting Chicago for the first time for work years ago, it’s always held a place in my heart. Great food, great people, great city. The city always feels alive, but from what I’ve seen in the past, even more so on the big race day!

JON DEITCHMAN ALEXANDRIA, VA

Never to be underappreciated are the crowds who are cheering you on! No matter who you are, where you are from, what you look like, these crowds are out there cheering you on all throughout the marathon to keep you going!

JAIMEE JARMULA VALPARAISO, IN

”I always said that if I was going to run 26.2 miles, it would be through the streets of Chicago. This will be one of my greatest accomplishments.

SYDNEY MILLE

I think If I were to break it all down to one word, I would say running gave me direction. Direction in a time where life seemed directionless. There’s tremendous value in that, and it all goes back to our simple sport.

ANDY RIDDLER, MILWAUKEE, WI

Even a true introvert like me can appreciate how amazing the atmosphere really is on that course. I’ve missed it last year, and we know why, but I look forward to getting back out there this October.

MARCUS CARER, LANSING, IL

I was going to run FRESNO, CA 26.2 miles, it would be through the streets of Chicago. This will be one of my greatest accomplishments.

SYDNEYMILLER, SRINGFIELD, MO