LifeTime Chicago Spring Half Marathon
I "carb-loaded" with a bagel that morning and thought it was enough.
My Gym
As a LifeTime member, I got a 15% discount on race registration. Of course, the tax fee and swag completely erased that.
Nutrients
By now I'd started experimenting with the right amount of food to eat before a race. Still early days — I "carb-loaded" with a bagel that morning and thought it was enough.
Cubs Game
A Cubs game was scheduled at Wrigley a few hours after the race. After a few minutes of limping post-race, I sold my ticket and went home.
Chicago Summer
This race took place at the beginning of Chicago summer 2022. I already had two halfs under my belt, so I felt pretty confident about this one — maybe I could actually finish without walking. I was also a member of the gym sponsoring the race, so the extra swag (the white sporty sunglasses in every photo) was kind of a nice bonus.
The Race
The race started near Maggie Daley Park in the Loop. I ran south past the Field Museum, Shedd Aquarium, and Soldier Field. Eventually we made it onto the southbound Lake Shore Trail, where most of the race took place — running along the divide between the serene Lake Michigan and the Windy City skyline, same as my last few Chicago runs.
We turned around on 31st Street near Hyde Park and made the return trip back up north towards Maggie Daley Park, finishing with a nice view of the skyline.
Personal Feedback
I'd hoped to run the whole half marathon for once, instead of walking part of it. Unfortunately my legs had other plans — around mile 8, I started walking, patting myself on the back for at least running half of it without stopping.
But like every other race, I felt really good and accomplished for wrapping up another half. I was also a year into grad school with an established running club, so I had a bit of a cheering squad this time. I also had finals the next week, so this was a welcome distraction. Overall, a pretty good year!