Chicago Distance Classic - HM (Read 733 times)

Isn't the Jackson stop closer than Roosevelt?

i thought both stops were about the same.. i always get mixed up where gear check is for the CDC vs. the marathon (esp athlete's village) jackson might be a bit closer like, a few hundred yards, if that. regardless, either stop works!

Thanks for the info and address. I sent Beth an email and will let the group know what she says. However, if the walkers actually start in the last wave (& we plan to), how much time do you think we will actually have to complete the course once we cross the start line. I have a feeling that it will be way shorter than initially indicated. wbertha

how much time do you think we will actually have to complete the course once we cross the start line. I have a feeling that it will be way shorter than initially indicated

Its just a guess, but I think they will be pretty generous with the time for two simple reasons. 1. The course no longer runs through the Loop, so no need to rush people along to open those streets. 2. The portion of the course that runs on lakeshore drive ends at mile 6.5, so they will be able to open LSD entirely once folks get past the midway point. After mile 6 1/2, it appears that no portion of the course runs on any streets or requires any road closures.

A couple updates on the Distance Classic.... First, we learn a little more about the wave start: "Approximately 2,000 athletes will start in each wave with 2 minutes between each group to ensure a safe event for all." So the whole wave thing should go pretty quickly, assuming it works as planned. Also some news regarding the timing chips: "NEW in 2008 the Chicago Distance Classic will be using the ChronoTrack timing system. This system uses a disposable timing device that you attach to your shoes. No need to worry about returning a chip at the end of the event, or a lost chip fee. For directions on how to properly attach the D-Tag click here." I'm pleased that they are using the D-Tags. These are disposable timing strips that will originally be attached to your bib. You peel the tag off the bib, and then loop it into your laces. I first used the D-Tag at this year's Nike Bastille Day 5K, and it was very cool. As a plus, the money goes to a midwestern (Indiana) company, rather than overseas to the ChampionChip folks. If you've never used the disposable D-Tags before, you should read the instructions. The tags are more fragile than chips, and you can damage them if you put them on incorrectly. (My recommendation is that you do NOT remove the tag from your bib until you get to the race and into the starting chute; there is less chance that the tag will get stepped on, twisted, or yanked off if you wait.)

Got my packet... same ole booths. However, I decided to pick up a pair of RaceReady shorts/loin cloth to see what all the hype's about. I'll give them a whirl on my next long run. Fingers crossed for the weather and some level of organization with the self seeding wave start.