Chicago is a great race for a first-time marathon experience. Everything is organized so well from the pre-race communication through the finish line. The crowds along the course are inspiring and can help you overcome some jitters. The course is relatively flat so it makes for an easier entry point for a beginner. The scenery and backdrop of Chicago are stunning. You begin in Grant Park just west of Lake Michigan and travel through diverse neighborhoods and architecture along the way.

A few challenges...It is a huge race. If you are intimidated by large crowds this might not be the race for you. With the large crowd, your start is a little delayed. I believe that I was in the starting corral for about 1 and 1/2 hours.