Chicago Marathon
October Baseball may not be here, but in October we still win! I was Brave. I was a Bravey. I owned Chicago!!! Don’t ever be afraid to turn your can’t into a maybe!
Post-Chicago Marathon celebrations 2019, Photo by Maria Gomer follow her on Instagram @Gomerland
Pre Race
The Chicago Marathon Expo was nothing short of amazing! From the vendors to the gear you were able to pick up and the grandeur of it all it truly is one of the best pre-race expos I have ever been to in the running world! But the best part of the pre-race experience isn't that it's all about the Expo, it's all the other great things that you can encounter in Chicago before your run around the whole city! You can eat some great Chicago hot dogs and dipped beef sandwiches at Portillo's or you can run into friends around the city or pick up customized Lululemon gear just for the race! I personally was also greeted with the great opportunity for the meet and greet with the one and only Alexi Pappas the day before the race. I also got to spend time with my family before the big day. This race is a great unifying race that brings together the whole city!
Race Day
The Chicago Marathon was one of the most amazing long-distance road races I've ever run. Period. The race showcases the cultural communities that fill Chicago and makes you feel like you are in a hometown race if you are anywhere from the Midwest. A must-do in the pre-race bounce with NP Chicago before you wait till you can cross the start line! From the people lining the streets, the sweet treats, the camaraderie of running with literally thousands of strangers, there nothing quite like it on a fresh and flat course in the heart of the Midwest. If you ever question signing up and running this race, I literally waited almost 10 years to finally throw my name in the bucket and I am beyond grateful!
Post Race
Every race has to come to an end, but will forever live in your memories. This race was literally not just a celebration of growing as a runner but as a person!