Can I sign up today to next Chicago Marathon but only in the begining of September send to them the proof of a half marathon under 1:30 to be on the Competitive Start ?
Can I sign up today to next Chicago Marathon but only in the begining of September send to them the proof of a half marathon under 1:30 to be on the Competitive Start ?
from the race website:
Competitive and Preferred Starting Positions
If you have completed a marathon or half-marathon since January 1, 2003 in a time faster than the times listed below and submit proof of your time to The LaSalle Bank Chicago Marathon Office, you will be considered for a Competitive or Preferred Starting Position. Fax proof to The LaSalle Bank Chicago Marathon Office at (312) 904-9820.
If you received a qualifying time at The 2003 or 2004 LaSalle Bank Chicago Marathon, simply check the appropriate box on the online or mail-in entry form. Proof is not required.
Marathon
Qualifying Time Half-Marathon
Qualifying Time
Competitive
Start 3:15:00 1:30:00
Preferred
Start 3:45:00 1:45:00
Competitive and Preferred Starting Positions are limited and are not guaranteed.
But I have to apply to the Competitive Start in the moment of the sgn-up or I can sign-up today and send the proof of my half-marathon time in a few months ?
You can send in your proof of qualifying time in a few months if you want, but there's a very good possibility that all the competitive spots will be filled by then, no matter how fast you ran. It all depends on how close to the race you send it in. That's what they mean about competitive starts not being guaranteed.
I faxed mine in about 2 months after I entered (but 3 months before the race) and managed to get a competitive start.
You definitely don't have to send it in with your registration. They will send you an email reminder for you to mail or fax your proof though. I sent mine in at the end of July and, if I am right, the race filled by the end of August (or at some point in August?).