Life Time Chicago Half Marathon Draws Nearly 10,000 Participants
The sold-out Life Time Chicago Half Marathon & 5K saw nearly 10,000 participants, with close to half being first-time runners. The event highlights the sport's growing appeal and accessibility.
Nearly 10,000 runners from across the United States and abroad participated in the sold-out Life Time Chicago Half Marathon & 5K on Sunday. The event, held on Chicago's South Side, served as a snapshot of the sport's increasing appeal and its ability to attract new participants.
Close to 10,000 individuals were represented, hailing from all 50 states and 52 countries. Notably, nearly 45% of participants were running their first-ever half marathon or 5K. Additionally, over 1,000 participants ran alongside a family member, and the age range spanned from 2-year-olds to 88-year-old runners. This marked the 29th annual staging of the event.
Life Time, the event's owner and producer, noted that running continues to evolve as a sport accessible at any age. The event's turnout suggests running is becoming a starting point for healthier lifestyles, shared family traditions, and personal journeys.
The race course offered a distinctive Chicago experience along Lake Shore Drive, providing views of Lake Michigan and the city skyline while winding through historic South Side neighborhoods. Runners experienced a unique urban backdrop, with the weekend also including a pre-race party and expo at Navy Pier that drew participants from various locations.