Could This Be the Year a Chicagoan Wins the Marathon—and Scores Us Free Beer?
For nearly five decades, runners from all over the world have conquered the Bank of America Chicago Marathon. Every October, 53,000 athletes pound the city’s streets while 1.7 million fans cheer them on, coffee (or beer) in hand. But here’s the kicker: in all those years since 1977, a Chicagoan has never won. Not once.
A Marathon with Global Star Power
The Chicago Marathon isn’t just a big local event, it’s one of the six World Marathon Majors, drawing elite runners from Kenya, Ethiopia, Japan, and beyond. Names like Kelvin Kiptum and Brigid Kosgei have broken records here, turning Grant Park’s finish line into a global stage.
Goose Island’s Hometown Bet
This year, Goose Island Beer Co. is putting their hops where their heart is. If a Chicago resident wins in any of the Professional subgroups, Goose Island will raise a glass to the home crowd, with a free beer for Chicagoland and beyond. That’s right: a local win means we all get to toast victory together.
How to Claim Your Beer (If the Dream Comes True)
If history is made on Sunday, head to gooseisland.com/chicagomarathon to snag your free beer. You’ll have until 11:59 p.m. CDT on October 15 to enter. No purchase necessary, just proof that Chicago pride pays off. Free beer terms.
Let’s Root for a Local Legend
So, lace up your good luck socks and raise a pint (just in case). Because if a Chicagoan crosses that finish line first, we’re all running to the fridge.
And guess what goes well with that free beer? PIZZA!
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