The Chicago Marathon is one of the most sought-after events for runners worldwide. Securing a spot can be competitive, but there are several ways to guarantee your entry.
Whether through qualifying times, legacy status, charity programs, or other methods, this guide will help you navigate all available options.
Qualifying through time standards
Meeting the qualifying time is one of the most straightforward ways. The new time standards for the 2025 Chicago Marathon have undergone changes, now lagging five to ten minutes behind those of the Boston Marathon.
Updated qualifying times
The updated standards cater to different age groups for men, women, and non-binary participants. Check the official website for detailed information on these new benchmarks.
Preparing to qualify
- Create a training schedule that gradually increases in intensity.
- Participate in preparatory races to measure progress.
- Consider hiring a coach for personalized guidance.
Legacy finisher status
| 🏃♂️ Age Group | 👨 Men | 👩 Women | 🌈 Non-Binary |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 Chicago Marathon Time Standards | |||
| 18 – 34 | 2:55:00 | 3:25:00 | 3:25:00 |
| 35 – 39 | 3:00:00 | 3:30:00 | 3:30:00 |
| 40 – 44 | 3:05:00 | 3:35:00 | 3:35:00 |
| 45 – 49 | 3:15:00 | 3:45:00 | 3:45:00 |
| 50 – 54 | 3:20:00 | 3:50:00 | 3:50:00 |
| 55 – 59 | 3:30:00 | 4:00:00 | 4:00:00 |
| 60 – 64 | 3:45:00 | 4:15:00 | 4:15:00 |
| 65 – 69 | 4:00:00 | 4:30:00 | 4:30:00 |
| 70 – 74 | 4:15:00 | 4:45:00 | 4:45:00 |
| 75 – 79 | 4:30:00 | 5:00:00 | 5:00:00 |
| 80 and over | 4:50:00 | 5:20:00 | 5:20:00 |
| 2024 Chicago Marathon Time Standards | |||
| 16 – 29 | 3:05:00 | 3:35:00 | 3:35:00 |
| 30 – 39 | 3:10:00 | 3:40:00 | 3:40:00 |
| 40 – 49 | 3:20:00 | 3:50:00 | 3:50:00 |
| 50 – 59 | 3:35:00 | 4:20:00 | 4:20:00 |
| 60 – 69 | 4:00:00 | 5:00:00 | 5:00:00 |
| 70 – 79 | 4:30:00 | 5:55:00 | 5:55:00 |
| 80 and over | 5:25:00 | 6:10:00 | 6:10:00 |
If you’ve completed the marathon five or more times within the last ten years, you attain Legacy Finisher Status, which guarantees your entry.
Benefits of being a legacy finisher
- Secure entry without worrying about qualifying times.
- Special recognition during race events.
Tips for maintaining legacy status
- Track your completions by keeping accurate records.
- Plan ahead to ensure participation in consecutive marathons.
The Charity Program
The Charity Program offers another guaranteed entry method by fundraising for an official event charity.
How to participate
- Select an official charity from the marathon’s list.
- Register as a fundraiser via the charity’s designated platform.
- Meet the minimum required fundraising amount before the deadline.
Benefits of running for charity
- Experience a rewarding journey by supporting a cause.
- Community engagement and encouragement from supporters.
Chicago Distance Series
Completing all three events in person in 2023 as part of the Bank of America Chicago Distance Series also secures a spot for the 2025 marathon.
Events included
- Shamrock Shuffle
- Half Marathon
- Marathon
Enrollment process
- Register for each event individually through their respective portals.
- Ensure all events are completed within the specified timeframe.
Cancellations and special policies
For those who canceled their 2024 entry or used the Pregnancy and Postpartum Policy, submitting a 2025 application is necessary to secure your spot.
Submitting your application
- Visit the official Chicago Marathon website.
- Fill out the 2025 application form.
- Submit any required documentation if applicable.
