Gulping from the Cup of Life

Sunday, October 11, 1998

Chicago Marathon (Illinois)

October 11, 1998	Marathon 8, State #4 (Age 30)
Chicago, Illinois	3:14:08

https://www.chicagomarathon.com/

Chicago's dead population notoriously arises at opportune times; John F. Kennedy could have attested to that after the 1960 presidential election! Not limited to Chicago politics, however, resurrection extends to Chicago sports - Michael Jordan, the Bulls, the 1998 Cubs, and the Chicago Marathon. Sponsorship problems forced the cancellation of the 1987 race, but Chicago has regained its place as one of the country's top, big-city marathons; and if you like big cities, Chicago is a must. The city of big shoulder's impressive architecture, skyline, lakefront, sports, entertainment, history, and culture make it a destination town par excellence. Our fasted-rated race, Chicago's lighting course (North American records for male and females have been established here) tours numerous ethnic neighborhoods that most visitors never see. With the exception of the disqualified women's winner from 1992, rarely will you hear a negative comment about the extremely well organized Chicago Marathon. Alive and well, Chicago is your to enjoy. [Craythorn and Hanna]

Taking runners through many of the city's most historic and diverse neighborhoods, the Chicago Marathon's loop course passes through Lincoln Park, Old Town, Greektown, Little Italy, Pilsen, Chinatown, Bridgeport and the Gap District. [Craythorn and Hanna]

Every marathoner receives a race T-shirt, goody bag, official race results booklet and entry into the post-race party. Participants finishing under 5:30 receive medallions, results cards and finisher's certificates. Age-group winners receive special prizes which are mailed soon after the event. Elite runners compete for $350,000 in prize money.

Monday, September 28, 1998

GT Bicycle

GT 1998 Vengence Time Trial Bicycle

I visited a bike store in Cleveland and instantly fell in love once again with this bike's design. Although the frame was aluminum, I changed the front fork to an aero carbon fork. I head onto this bike for over 15 years and raced two tough Ironman bike courses. It was a fast bike again with 650 wheels and a 56" front chain ring. Growing up a flat lander I didn't realize how poor my gear ratios were was for long hill hill climbs. I had this bike in Ohio, Seattle, and even started out with in in Los Angeles riding it until I got my Trek Madone.