15/06/2025
I was so prepared to run, but I had no clue what happened when it was all done…👇🫢
Here are 3 things I wish someone told me before running the Chicago Marathon:
1. There is one small hill around mile 21 and after running a very flat course, to me it looked and felt like a mountain. I remember being upset that everyone said the race was flat but failed to mention this moment. 🫢😅 I do remember was there cheering on runners so loud it made it easier to climb. Some people will walk this portion, I chose to run to make it go by faster. Do what works for you, but be prepared!! This year I am going in with a better plan.
2. After I crossed the finish line I felt SO LOST and LONLEY. Strange I know. I was surrounded by other runners who had just accomplished this incredible challenge, but I felt so alone at the same time. I followed the flow of people and grabbed a water, a blanket, and a banana and collected myself for a minute.
I remember some runners looking at one another smiling. A smile back goes a long way. Some people were crying, others sitting on the ground, others throwing up. Everyone was in their own world. I just took in the moment but kept myself from sitting as I feared I might not want to stand up again.
It wasn’t until I got my medal from a very kind volunteer that I realized I was done. It took me about 10 minutes to process.
3. The walk to my family/the spectators section was about a mile long. Which took me about 25 minutes as I hobbled my way over. 😅 I decided to call Chase and my mom at this time so they knew I finished the race and could be on the look out for me. At this point it was so nice to hear some familiar voices as other races I have done I saw my family right after the finish line. I didn’t realize how far it would be OR feel. I wish I would have grabbed an extra Gatorade or water and went to the bathroom before making the trek!
I hope maybe this is helpful for anyone who has gone through these feelings at the end/post race feel less alone or helpful for someone running Chicago for their first time! It is an incredible race, hence why I am running it again for the 3rd time!!