The 26.2-mile Chicago Marathon course is flat, fast and ready to welcome more than 53,000 runners this Sunday.

The race begins in waves starting at 7:20 a.m. in Grant Park and follows a route through 29 neighborhoods.

What began as the Mayor Daley Marathon in 1977 has become more inclusive for a variety of people — including wheelchair racers. It has been canceled only twice: in 1987 because of the lack of a sponsor and in 2020 because of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Here’s what to know if you plan to participate, cheer on a runner — or just want to avoid traffic jams on race day.

Date: Sunday, Oct. 12

TV: Live on NBC 5 from 7-11 a.m. Finish-line camera and livestream available on nbcchicago.com and telemundochicago.com .

Radio: WSCR-AM 670 from 7-11 a.m.

Start times

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