You, Couch Potato, Can Be a (Virtual) Chicago Marathon Champion: How to Watch From Your Living Room
Let's face it, running 26.2 miles is a feat reserved for actual superheroes, gazelle-like creatures, and those folks who confuse marathons with a particularly long grocery run. But fear not, fellow enthusiast (or Netflix enthusiast, no judgement!), because you can still experience the thrill of the Chicago Marathon without ever needing to lace up your (probably dusty) sneakers.
Embrace Your Inner Channel Surfer: The Classic TV Broadcast
Let's start with the tried-and-true method: television! Gather your snacks (because, let's be honest, this is basically a sporting event viewing party for one), find a comfy spot on the couch, and tune in to NBC 5 Chicago, Telemundo Chicago, or TeleXitos. These local heroes will be bringing you live coverage from 7 to 11 AM CST.
Pro Tip: If you find yourself getting restless (or lured away by the latest cat video compilation), don't worry! The marathon gods have smiled upon you, because there's also a finish line camera stream that will keep you glued to the screen until the very last runner crosses the finish line (hopefully not resembling a melted popsicle).
Cutting the Cord? No Sweat (Literally)! Streaming to the Rescue
Maybe you're a modern marvel who ditched cable TV in favor of the glorious (and often cheaper) world of streaming. Fear not, my friend, because the Chicago Marathon has you covered there too! You can catch the whole shebang live-streamed on the websites of NBC 5 Chicago and Telemundo Chicago (nbcchicago.com and telemundochicago.com, respectively), or by downloading their handy-dandy apps.
Bonus Round: If you're feeling fancy (or maybe just want to impress your significant other with your knowledge of obscure streaming services), you can also watch it on Peacock. Just remember, that might require a subscription, so check your wallet before you commit.
Word to the Wise: Streaming can be a data hog, so make sure your internet connection is up for the challenge. Nobody wants a buffering marathon on top of the actual marathon, am I right?
So, Who Should You Watch?
Well, that depends on your priorities. Do you want to be dazzled by the elite runners, crushing personal bests and defying the laws of human endurance? Or are you more interested in cheering on the everyday heroes, the folks who trained for months (or maybe just weeks, no judgement) to achieve their own personal victories? The beauty of the marathon is that there's a story for everyone, so find your favorites and root them on!
Now, if you'll excuse me, I have a date with my couch, a bag of chips, and the Chicago Marathon. May the odds (and the snacks) be ever in your favor!
