Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation
Team Challenge - Bank of America Chicago Marathon FAQs
Registration
Q: How many entries do Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation and Team Challenge have for the Bank of America Chicago Marathon?
A: Every year, the Foundation is allotted a set amount of race entries that have to be filled by a certain date. These entries are given out on a first-come, first-served basis and require the participant to agree to a $1,975 fundraising commitment. In 2023, we will be sending 75 teammates to Chicago.
Q: Why am I required to give credit card information?
A: In the unlikely event that you do not reach your fundraising commitment of $1,975 by the deadline (September 27, 2023), your credit card on file will be charged the difference. Don’t worry — our team will be there every step of the way to help you reach and exceed your goal!
Q: Is there a registration fee?
A: Yes, all participants must pay a $15 registration fee at the time of their registration.
Q: I have my own entry into the Bank of America Chicago Marathon. Can I still be a part of Team Challenge?
A: Yes! We’d love to have you join our Team Challenge family as we hit the streets of Chicago. You can purchase your entry and enjoy all the perks of being part of Team Challenge as an “athlete with own entry.” Please contact Kat Gunsur-Smith for more information.
Q: What if I register and then can no longer participate?
A: Due to our limited allotment of race entries, we do not allow drops from this program. All participants, regardless of their ability to run on race day, must fulfill their fundraising commitment of $1,975 by September 27, 2023.
Bank of America Chicago Marathon
Q: When is the 2023 Bank of America Chicago Marathon?
A: The 2023 Bank of America Chicago Marathon will take place on October 8, 2023.
Q: What can I expect at the Bank of America Chicago Marathon?
A: The Bank of America Chicago Marathon is one of the six iconic World Marathon Majors events, known for being a great race for both experienced runners looking for a personal record or beginners who want an easier first-time experience. Enjoy a flat, fast course and a cool autumn climate while running through 29 Chicago communities. You’ll experience the diverse cultures, historic buildings and residences, renowned architecture and vibrant murals that make the Bank of America Chicago Marathon a world-renowned race destination. Nearly two million spectators flock to this 26.2-mile route annually, cheering on participants with handmade signs as they race toward the finish line in Grant Park.
Q: How do I find more information about the Bank of America Chicago Marathon?
A: For more race day information, please visit the Bank of America Chicago Marathon website.
Fundraising
Q: Is there a fundraising commitment?
A: Yes, all Team Challenge participants are required to raise funds. Fundraising commitments vary and are based on the event in which you are participating. To participate in the Bank of America Chicago Marathon, you commit to raising $1,975. But not to worry, our team is there to help you reach your goals!
Q: Can I earn rewards for fundraising?
A: Yes! You’ll earn Team Challenge gear at each fundraising milestone you achieve and opportunities to win fundraising contests. You can view all the prizes and milestones here.
Q: When is the fundraising deadline?
A: There are two fundraising deadlines as part of your Bank of America Chicago Marathon journey to help keep you on track. The first milestone is three months before your race date (July 2023). We recommend that you are at least halfway to your fundraising commitment by this point. The second milestone and final fundraising deadline is 10 days before your race date, September 27, 2023.
Q: I’m registered for the event but am no longer able to participate. Do I still need to raise funds?
A: Once you have signed up directly through the Team Challenge registration website, you are officially committed to run the race and fundraise on behalf of the Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation. Due to our limited allotment of race entries, we do not allow drops from this program. All participants, regardless of their ability to run on race day, must fulfill their fundraising commitment.
Q: How do I raise money?
A: Once you register, you’ll receive access to your fundraising dashboard and a link to your personal fundraising page, where you can create customized content, send emails, connect your fundraising page to a Facebook fundraiser, and more. Plus, our extraordinary team will be there with you to help guide your fundraising and training every step of the way!
Q: To whom do I make checks payable and where do I mail it to?
A: Please make checks payable to Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation. Read our offline donation form for more information.
Q: How do I ensure check donations are allocated toward my goal?
A: Please ensure that your name is on the check memo line of the donation before mailing it and accompanying any check donations with this offline donation form.
Q: Where does the money I raise go?
A: The Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation is dedicated to finding cures for Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis and improving the quality of life for people living with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). More than 10 million people worldwide are affected by these diseases — when you hit the streets of Chicago, you’ll be running for them.
Perks
Q: What perks does Team Challenge offer?
A: When you join the Team Challenge family, you’ll receive your Team Challenge T-shirt or singlet, race entry to the Bank of America Chicago Marathon, and a discounted hotel rate to the Congress Plaza (right next to the start line). Also included are bi-weekly meetups with Coach Marc, the team manager (Kat) and other teammates, professional coaching, a 20-week training guide and fundraising resources. In addition, you can look forward to race weekend fun with a happy hour meet and greet on Friday evening, a final team shakeout run, and a post-race celebration!
Q: How can I connect with other Team Challenge coaches and members of the Team Challenge family?
A: When you join the Team Challenge family, you’ll gain access to our Strava Club and Facebook Group! Additionally, you’ll be able to connect with teammates on our bi-weekly marathon team calls.
Training
Q: Does Team Challenge provide training support?
A: Yes! Coaching and training support will be offered to all registered participants. For the Bank of America Chicago Marathon, there is a 20-week training plan, plus a 12-week base-building plan before training officially begins.
Q: Is there an additional cost for training?
A: No. Your $15 registration fee helps cover the cost associated with the coaching and training plans.
Contact Us
Q: Questions?
A: Please contact us at teamchallenge@crohnscolitisfoundation.org.
