Posted: April 18, 2007

Athletics: The 2007 Lasalle Bank Chicago Marathon Closes Registration: Race Reaches 45,000 Participant Capacity

Limited Number of Entries Available Through Charities, Tour Groups, CARA CHICAGO (April 18, 2007) – Registration for The 30th Anniversary LaSalle Bank Chicago Marathon has reached its 45,000 participant capacity – nearly six months in advance of the October 7 race. Despite an increase in available entries from 40,000 in 2006 to 45,000 in 2007, registration for the 26.2-mile race closed slightly ahead of the 2006 pace when it reached capacity five months in advance of race day. “We have enjoyed a wonderful and colorful history with this race and are humbled by the increasing enthusiasm that welcomes it year after year,” said Executive Race Director Carey Pinkowski. “As we prepare for our 30th anniversary celebration, we are inspired by the energy with which our participants, spectators, volunteers, sponsors and the city of Chicago are approaching this event. We are looking forward to another year of great competition and the multitude of touching stories that characterize our field of dedicated runners.” Runners who missed the deadline and are still interested in registering for The 30th Anniversary LaSalle Bank Chicago Marathon may do so through one of the event’s 85 charity partners, affiliated international tour groups or the Chicago Area Runners Association (CARA). More information on entries available through these organizations is available through the Marathon website chicagomarathon.com. Since its inception in 1977 with 4,200 registered participants, The LaSalle Bank Chicago Marathon has grown to a field of 45,000 runners attracting 1.2 million spectators and generating more than $9.5 million for charity in 2006. The 2007 LaSalle Bank Chicago Marathon The LaSalle Bank Chicago Marathon will celebrate its 30th anniversary on Sunday, October 7, 2007 as 45,000 participants advance to the start line, embarking on the culmination of 45,000 personal journeys. Along with the massive field of recreational runners, the 26.2-mile course will welcome a full field of world-renowned professional athletes drawn to the flat, fast, urban setting and the potential to break world and national records. The professionals will compete for prize money and points in the World Marathon Majors series which will crown its first male and female champions with $500,000 each at the close of 2007. Since the inception of its charity program in 2002, The LaSalle Bank Chicago Marathon has generated more than $27.5 million for a variety of charitable causes including $9.5 million in the 2006 event alone. Registration for the race opened on January 1, 2007 and closed when it reached capacity on April 18. For more information, visit www.chicagomarathon.com.