Chicago’s "Good Vibrations" Help Thousands of Marathoners Cross the Finish Line

Energized Runners Take on the 2024 Bank of America Chicago Marathon

The 46th annual Chicago Marathon saw thousands of participants gather along the city’s streets, donning their running gear and eager to conquer the 26.2-mile course. The event is known for its mostly flat terrain and lively atmosphere, which only added to the enthusiasm of the runners. This year, thousands of enthusiastic supporters turned out to cheer on their loved ones, making the day a true celebration of endurance and determination.

Aid Stations and Support Out in Full Force

Throughout the course, tens of thousands of gallons of Gatorade and water, as well as 12,000 pounds of bananas, were handed out to the runners at designated aid stations. These stations were strategically located to ensure participants had access to essential hydration and nutrition at the most critical points of their journey. Without a doubt, these amenities played a crucial role in helping runners push through the final stretches of the marathon.

Stories of Perseverance and Triumph

Among the thousands of participants was 60-year-old Batbayar Tserendorj, who was running his second Chicago marathon. Tserendorj’s journey was not without its challenges. Prior to the event, he was diagnosed with liver cancer, a diagnosis that initially seemed to dash his hopes of participating. However, doctors informed him that he was a good candidate for liver transplant, and after receiving a new liver, he was back on his feet and ready to face the marathon. This event held a special meaning for Tserendorj, who dedicated his run to all organ donors and urged everyone to consider becoming one.

“Will Run for Donuts” Citations and Good Cheer

In Little Italy, around the 19th mile marker, music pulsed to keep the runners’ energy high. Spectators rang cowbells, whooped, and held signs with clever sayings or photos of their loved ones. Gisselle Izaguirre, 19, came out to watch the marathon from Plainfield, bearing three dozen glazed Dunkin’ donuts, offering a sweet treat to the runners. While most participants didn’t stop to grab a snack, a few appreciated the surprise, recalling that "it’s fun to enjoy the marathon without taking it too seriously." Izaguirre, an avid runner herself, has completed a half marathon and hopes to conquer the Chicago Marathon in the near future. "It’s definitely inspiring to see people get up and run 26 miles for fun," she said. "It’s definitely motivating."

Chicago’s “Good Vibrations”

Cesar Moritz, with his wife in tow, described Chicago’s atmosphere as "more exciting" and "with better crowd control" compared to other major marathons they’ve participated in. When asked what he thought of the event, he chuckled, raising his Goose Island 312 beer in a toast to his wife. "Chicago has good vibrations. You can’t beat the crowd, the music, and the energy," he said simply. For runners like Moritz, the energy of the event makes it a one-of-a-kind experience.

FAQs

Q: What was the overall turnout for the 2024 Bank of America Chicago Marathon?
A: Roughly 50,000 runners registered for the event.

Q: How many aid stations were located along the course?
A: Hundreds of thousands of gallons of Gatorade and water, as well as 12,000 pounds of bananas, were distributed at aid stations.

Q: Were there any notable stories of perseverance and triumph among participants?
A: Yes, one runner, Batbayar Tserendorj, was diagnosed with liver cancer just prior to the event and received a liver transplant, only to complete the marathon and dedicate it to organ donors.