"To give less than your best is to sacrifice the gift."
- Steve Prefontaine

Many runners will tell you that racing is what motivates them. Knowing that a big race is coming up pushes runners to train harder and more consistently, utilize speed workouts, and use cross-training.

The following is a brief list of outstanding racing opportunities that are accessible from the Evanston and Chicago area.

 

National Intercollegiate Running Club Association

The NIRCA provides a network for running clubs across the nation. Races hosted by member clubs are posted on their website. Check out Clubrunning.org for more information.

The LaSalle Bank Chicago Marathon

This is the big Chicago Race- 40,000+ entrants and over a million spectators. If you've never run a marathon before, this is a great one to start with. There are plenty of aid stations, lots of pacing teams, and one of the fastest marathon courses in the world. It draws worldwide talent along with thousands of beginners.

Chicago Half Marathon

A south-side race that is good to gear you up for 26.2 or a nice change of pace from the 5K or 10K. Course actually runs on Lake Shore Drive.

Chicago Distance Classic

Billed as "Chicago's Oldest Race," the CDC is an August half marathon that is another good training point for the full marathon.

Ricky Byrdsong Memorial 5K

The famous "Race Against Hate and Win" is held in Evanston on Long Field. This 5K is supposedly the fastest 5K course in Chicago, making it exceptionally well-organized. Expect a field of 1200+ with chip-timing and a substantial prize purse. Usually held in June, check Signmeupsports.com for details.

PLU Adrenaline Rush 5K

The best-organized race held on campus at Northwestern, featuring a USATF certified course, professional timing, and lots of food.

Cross Country Challenge

A freezing cross-country 8K held in Gilberts, IL in December. Expect to run through deep marshes, streams, manure, and lots of mud. Wear old clothing. Check Signmeupsports.com for details.

During the spring, summer, and fall, you can find a 5K or 10K just about every weekend in the Chicagoland area. The best way to find these races are through the following websites: