I ran this race for 2 reasons;
1. My daughter, Alison, just moved to Chicago and I wanted to run a race with her
2. I waited too long and the Chicago Marathon was already filled
I'm not going to spend a lot of time with this post; instead, I'll just add lots of pictures. It's a typical big city race, crowded, but well organized. The course runs from downtown along Lakeshore Dr, then turns back and runs up the bike/jogging trail right along the lake. Nice, but I'd actually prefer to run through the unique neighborhoods.
We were running well, hoping to finish around 2 hours. One of us, of whom I shall not refer to by name, had a battle going on between the stomach and breakfast, which consisted of the 'Vegan Take-a-Hike Scone,' from the local organic bakery. The scone and it's fibrous content won the battle, costing us a good 5 minute bathroom stop. Perhaps the concoction might be more aptly named the 'Take-a-Sh.....oh, never mind!
By the way, I am not a vegetarian.
Final time, 2:10:58. Respectable.
Alison's new apartment, the lower floor of this 4-story home in the Lakeview/Wrigleyville area
My favorite tavern, O'Donovans, right on the corner of her street. Great food!
.
I think they belive this year
Alison, myself and RingoIf I were to be a Chicago sports fan, I'd definitely be a Cubs fan.
What a great atmosphere around the whole area!
Sue and Alison in the Chicago Skyline
Look, there I am, sporting my Trail Nerds bandanaas we head near the finish line.
We pose in Grant Park for a picture
Now, who could resist this? Not me
Nothing like a fresh Stiegls Marzen after a long hard run.This lager has a pale yellow-gold hue. Toasty and bready aromas
follow through on a medium-bodied palate with soft malty
flavors and a hint of spicy and bitter hops on the finish. Delicious.
