This was my second marathon and because of my experience I will definitely be back for more. Chicago has so much to offer as a Marathon city, no wonder it is in the top six "World Class" Marathons. Highest on the list is the crowd support. There is hardly a single yard where there was a lack of people with signs, food, water or some form of support.

The weather was also PERFECT. I was terrified that it was going to either be stiflingly hot or frigidly cold. I could not have asked for better weather. The only thing I would have asked would have been for a bit of cloud coverage.

My one criticism would be of the 27th mile post-race event. After finishing the race, you get your heat blanket and medal which are great. Water and nutrients are nowhere to be found. I was offered beer before water, and that was NOT happening. I had to walk another several yards through a ton of people to find water. I contemplated fainting just so that I could get what I needed. All of the runner have to continue walking about a half mile to the post race events. The biggest problem with this is that non-racing family members are allowed into the finish party and crowd the finish line area so that it is more difficult to move. Organizationally, this area should have been kept completely clear so that finishers could get what they need more quickly.

Overall, this is an amazing marathon with fantastic crowd support. If I have any say in the matter, I will be back for more.