Start corrals

The Bank of America Chicago Marathon proudly stands out as a race that welcomes elite runners and debut marathoners alike. The wave and start corral process offers a more optimal race day experience for all participants.

• All participants are assigned to a start corral (American Development, Corral A, B, C, D, E, F, G, H, J, K, L, M or N)
• Assignments are based on the start corral qualifying standards, the information submitted during the application process (qualifying and estimated finish times) and previous Bank of America Chicago Marathon results.
• Beginning Thursday, July 20, participants can view their preliminary start corral assignments through their participant account.
• Participants may request a Wave 1 corral assignment by providing a qualifying time attained as of January 1, 2021, on a certified course, using the start corral change request form. The request form will be available from Thursday, July 20 through 5 p.m. (U.S. Central Time) on Tuesday, August 8. Please note that the American Development Program has reached capacity.  Requests for assignment to the American Development Program corral are no longer being accepted.
• For placement in a Wave 2 or Wave 3 corral, participants may submit their request using the start corral change request form. The request form will be available from Thursday, July 20 through 5 p.m. (U.S. Central Time) on Tuesday, August 8.
• Start corrals are assigned or re-assigned on a first-come, first-served basis.
• Assignment to a specific start corral is based on availability and is not guaranteed.
• Beginning Tuesday, August 15, participants can view their final start corral assignments through their participant account.

View the 2023 Bank of America Chicago Marathon Start corral qualifying standards (.pdf)

View frequently asked questions about the start corral process.

FAQs

What are start corrals?
Start corrals are designated start areas designed to facilitate a more efficient and convenient race start for all runners. Wave 1 start corrals are assigned based on a participant’s accepted qualifying time. Wave 2 and Wave 3 start corrals are assigned based on a runner’s expected finish time.

How do I know my start corral assignment?
Beginning Thursday, July 20, you can view your preliminary start corral assignment through your participant account. You will also receive an email in advance of the race indicating your event bib number and final corral assignment.

How can I change my start corral assignment?
All corral change requests must be made using the start corral change request form. The request form will be available from Thursday, July 20 through 5 p.m. (U.S. Central Time) on Tuesday, August 8.

Can I submit a corral change request after the deadline to be considered?
No, you may submit a start corral change request from Thursday, July 20 through 5 p.m. (U.S. Central Time) on Tuesday, August 8 via the start corral change request form. Requests following the Tuesday, August 8 deadline will not be considered.

What is considered acceptable proof of a qualifying time for a Wave 1 corral?
Proof of a qualifying time may be submitted in the form of a direct link to an online results page. Results must be from a half marathon or marathon completed on or after January 1, 2021 and must meet the corral’s qualification standards.

Is proof of a qualifying time required for Wave 2 and Wave 3 start corrals
No. Wave 2 and Wave 3 start corrals are assigned on a first-come, first-served basis based on a participant’s estimated finish time.

Are start corral assignments guaranteed?
Start corral assignments are not guaranteed. Corrals are filled on a first-come, first-served basis until they reach their respective capacities.

Will my start corral assignment impact my race start time?
Yes. Your race start time is based on your start corral assignment.

Can I switch from one start corral to another on race day?
No. All participants must start in their assigned start corral on race day.

I missed qualifying for a start corral by a few seconds. Will you make an exception?
No. Start corral qualifying standards are strictly adhered to.