So You Wanna Run Like the Wind...in Chicago? Apparently EVERYONE Does!
The Chicago Marathon - a glorious autumnal trek through the Windy City, a test of human endurance, and apparently, the hottest ticket in town (well, next to that new Beyonce concert everyone's freaking out about). But have you ever stopped to think, just how many people dream of conquering those 26.2 miles? Buckle up, because we're about to dive into the hilarious world of Chicago Marathon application numbers.
Hold Onto Your Running Shorts: A Record-Shattering Year
Let's just say, if the Chicago Marathon were a dating app, it would be swiping left on most applicants. That's right, for the 2024 race, a whopping over 120,000 people threw their metaphorical hats (or, more likely, very expensive running shoes) into the application ring. That's more people than live in some small countries...seriously, you could populate a decent-sized Rhode Island with these marathon hopefuls!
The Hunger Games: Lottery Edition
So what are the odds of actually getting picked? Well, with only around 50,000 spots available, it's basically a lottery situation. Imagine the pre-race jitters being amplified by refreshing your email every two seconds for weeks, waiting to see if you're in or out. Talk about a nerve-wracking way to pick your running outfit!
But Wait, There's More! (Because There Always Is)
Now, before you write off your Chicago Marathon dreams entirely, there are a few other ways to snag a spot. You can qualify with a super-speedy marathon time (cue applause for the superhuman runners out there), or you can run for a charity (good karma AND a guaranteed entry? Now that's a win-win).
The Moral of the Story? It's a Marathon, Not a Sprint (to Get In)
So, whether you're a seasoned marathoner or a newbie with a serious case of FOMO, getting into the Chicago Marathon is no easy feat. But hey, that just makes the accomplishment all the sweeter, right? Just remember, if you don't make it in this year, there's always next year (and the year after that, because apparently, EVERYONE wants to run Chicago!). In the meantime, lace up your shoes, hit the pavement, and train hard. Because who knows, maybe next year, you'll be one of the lucky few battling the crowds (and that epic Chicago wind) for that coveted finisher's medal.
