Join the fun at Bank of America Chicago Marathon

More than 40,000 runners and thousands of supporters will be in Chicago this weekend for the Bank of America Chicago Marathon Oct. 9, 2016. So, if you haven’t already made a dinner reservation downtown Chicago Friday or Saturday, consider eating out in the suburbs or waiting until late Sunday. But do join the fun downtown or in Chicago’s neighborhoods along the course. All you have to do is cheer on the runners to their best times or to merely finish the 26 mile 385 yard (42.195 kilometer) race.

Bank of America Chicago Marathon. Bank of America photo
Bank of America Chicago Marathon. Bank of America photo

If a friend or relative is running in the Chicago Marathon you have likely discussed where to watch and know that you can meet in Butler Field between Columbus Drive and Lake Shore Drive north of Jackson Drive.

However, part of the fun of the race for spectators is to cheer runners with encourage signs, bells and words as they speed by. Bank of America, US Trust and Merrill Lynch have Cheer Zones with items you can use to give runners an extra lift.

The race starts at 7:30 a.m. The following times used here are for when runners pass are estimates.

Bank of America’s Zones are at Mile 13 at Monroe and Jefferson where runners are likely to go past after 8:27 a.m. and Mile 26 at Michigan Avenue and Roosevelt Road near the finish line where runners will pass after 9:30 a.m.

US Trust’s Zone is about the halfway point (Miles 13-14) on Jefferson Street between Monroe and Adams Streets where runners will be seen after 8:28 a.m. Merrill Lynch’s zone is at Mile 16.5 at Halsted Street and Jackson to see runners after 8:47 a.m.

Spectators can also go to the Post-Race Party in Butler Field after 9 a.m. (There is security screening).

Just leave your car at home. Put on your walking/ running shoes or use Chicago’s CTGA system. Crowds will be jamming streets and sidewalks. In addition, some street closures such as Columbus Drive around Grant Park have already happened. Other streets on the course close at 7 a.m. Sunday (race day). Most will reopen by 2:30 p.m.

Maybe the race will inspire you to participate next year.

For other information visit Bank of America Chicago Marathon

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Author: Jodie

Longtime Chicago Tribune contributor for news and features. Travel writer for What's Happening, Lakeland Boating and A&E for CBS