2021 Chicago Half Marathon

On September 26th I ran the 2021 Chicago Half Marathon. It wasn’t my fastest race, but it was really enjoyable. Plus, it checked off another state, #11 on my list.

Race Expo

We drove to Chicago from Cincinnati on Saturday morning. The expo was easy to find and we found street parking relatively fast. The expo itself was full of vendors, information, photo opportunities and a merchandise shop.

Of course we took advantage of the photo op! Unfortunately, after signing up both Trish and Angela experienced injuries. Luckily, they were able to transfer to the 5k and still participate in the fun weekend.

Carb Loading in Chicago

We loaded up on mozzarella sticks and deep dish pizza at Gino’s East. My friends loved it, but I thought it was just good. It was the perfect meal before a long race, but if I wasn’t racing I wouldn’t seek the restaurant out while in Chicago.

2021 Chicago Half Marathon

The actual race was pancake flat. The route was somewhat of an out and back along Lakeshore Drive. Lots of beautiful views of Lake Michigan and downtown Chicago. I was a little hesitant since I’ve had a lackluster attitude toward training. The cool weather and flat route helped incredibly. I kept a fair pace through roughly 8 miles. With less than 5 miles left I resolved to finish via run/walk. It was thoroughly enjoyable. I chatted with a few people and listened into random conversations. When I saw the Statue of Republic in the park, I picked up the pace and finished strong. I tried to get a selfie with her after finishing. 🙂

The medal was massive! It might pull my medal holder off the wall. The post-race drinks were cold and the pizza slices were small but tasty. Overall, I really liked the race! The route was easy, the weather was perfect and the city is just gorgeous.

All 50 States

• Alabama – 2021 Cancelled Rocket City Marathon
• Arizona – Wickenburg Wild West 1/2
• California – Napa 1/2
• Florida – Amelia Island 1/2
• Georgia – Ironman 70.3 Augusta Relay
• Illinois – Chicago 1/2
• Indiana – Indy Full & Carmel 1/2
• Kentucky – Honor Run 1/2
• Michigan – Ragnar (my cumulative miles were over 13, so I’m counting it!)
• Minnesota – Gopher to Badger 1/2
• Missouri – Creve Coeur St. Paddy’s 1/2
• Nevada – Las Vegas 1/2
• North Dakota – Fargo 1/2
• North Carolina – Asheville 1/2
• Ohio – Flying Pig Full & 1/2 (virtual), Queen Bee 1/2 2018 & 2019
• Pennsylvania – Run for the Elk 1/2
• Rhode Island – 2023 Red Island 1/2
• South Carolina – 2023 Charleston 1/2 (2022 Cancelled Charleston 1/2)
• Tennessee – Nashville Full
• West Virginia – Marshall University Full
• Wisconsin – Eau Claire 1/2
• Wyoming – Jackson Hole 1/2

Upcoming races: Flying Pig Half (no new state), Honor Run Half (KY), Rocket City Half (AL) and the Charleston Half (SC).