FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
The Bank of America Chicago Marathon Announces the Cancellation
of the 2020 Event
Runners Registered for the October 11 Race Will Have the Option
for a Refund or to Defer Their Place and Entry Fee to a Future Race
as Well as Participate in a Virtual Experience
CHICAGO - The Bank of America Chicago Marathon, scheduled for Sunday,
October 11, has been cancelled in response to the ongoing public health
concerns brought on by the coronavirus pandemic. Event organizers and the
City of Chicago made the decision to cancel race weekend activities, citing
the challenges of staging an event of this scale at this time and out of
concern for the safety of event participants, volunteers, event staff and
spectators.
"The Chicago Marathon is our city's beloved annual celebration of more than
45,000 runners, as well as tens of thousands of volunteers, spectators and
city residents, all of whom come together race weekend as one community
here in our city," said Mayor Lori Lightfoot. "Like all Chicagoans, I'm
personally disappointed that this year's event won't take place as
originally planned, however, we look forward to welcoming all runners and
their cheering squads once again when the Chicago Marathon returns to our
city in full force for another very exciting race."
In light of this decision, registered participants for the 2020 event will
have the option to receive a refund for their race entry or defer their
place and entry fee to a future Bank of America Chicago Marathon (2021,
2022 or 2023). Event organizers notified participants today, and said they
will provide an update to participants in the coming days with additional
information on the available options.
Registered participants for the International Chicago 5K will also have the
option to receive a refund or defer their entry to a future year (2021,
2022 or 2023).
"Hope drives us as runners and as humans. My hope was to see everyone on
the start line on Sunday, October 11, but our highest priority has always
been the safety of our participants and our volunteers," said Carey
Pinkowski, executive race director of the Bank of America Chicago Marathon.
"We understand the disappointment, but when we return to the streets of
Chicago, it will be a celebratory moment and an uncompromising statement
about the collective spirit of who we are as a running community: we are
powerful, we are persistent, and we will reach the finish line again."
Event organizers are currently developing plans for a virtual experience to
recognize the dedication and commitment of everyone who would have taken
part in the 43rd running of the Bank of America Chicago Marathon. Details
on how participants, their network of supporters, and fans of the sport can
get involved will be shared in the coming weeks.
For additional information on the event cancellation and a comprehensive
FAQ, visit chicagomarathon.com.
About the Bank of America Chicago Marathon
The Bank of America Chicago Marathon welcomes thousands of runners from
more than 100 countries and all 50 states, including a world-class elite
field, top regional and Masters runners, race veterans, debut marathoners
and charity runners. The race's iconic course takes runners through 29
vibrant neighborhoods on an architectural and cultural tour of Chicago.
Annually, an estimated 1.7 million spectators line the streets cheering on
more than 45,000 runners from the start line to the final stretch down
Columbus Drive. For more information about the event and how to get
involved, go to chicagomarathon.com.
For more Bank of America news, including dividend announcements and other
important information, visit the Bank of America newsroom and register for
news email alerts.
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