Elite Development Program
The Elite Development Program (formerly the Top 100 Program) recognizes the fastest amateur athletes in the 2010 Bank of America Chicago Marathon. Such athletes are top local, regional and national athletes who may be competing for personal best times or noteworthy performances, but not necessarily top “Overall” placement among the Elite field. Those who qualify for the Elite Development Program receive race morning amenities and a secure Start Corral at the front of the field, directly behind the Elite Corral.
Acceptance into the Elite Development Program is based on the qualifying standards below. Qualified athletes have an extended deadline of September 1 to register for the 2010 Bank of America Chicago Marathon.
Key Amenities include:
- Extended registration deadline (September 1, 2010)
- Separate and secure start/finish area tent
- Private toilet facilities
- Private Gear Check
- Access to the Elite Development Start Corral 15 minutes prior to official race start
- Opportunity to start directly behind the Elite Corral
To qualify for the Elite Development Program, you must have run a documented race time no earlier than January 1, 2008 and no later than September 1, 2010 that is faster than the following:
Half Marathon Marathon
Men sub 1:11:00 sub 2:31:00
Women sub 1:21:00 sub 3:01:00
How to Enter
To gain entry into the Elite Development Program, e-mail eliteathlete@chicagomarathon.com and include a Web site link to your qualifying race result. Upon acceptance into the Elite Development Program you will be sent a registration form via e-mail. That form must be returned via e-mail or fax prior to the September 1 registration deadline. Elite Development entries will not be accepted after September 1.
To confirm your entry status, visit our online registration confirmation page.
Please note that the Elite Development Program is not a complimentary entry into the event. All entrants must pay the standard event entry fee of $135.
American Development Time Bonus
In a continuing effort to support the development of American athletes in the marathon, the 2010 Bank of America Chicago Marathon will offer the following American Development Time Bonuses:
Men: $2,500 for sub 2:19:00; $1,000 for sub 2:21:00
Women: $2,500 for sub 2:39:00; $1,000 for sub 2:46:00
Timing
Clock time (Gun time) is the official time for all Elite Development participants. The official times will be recorded from the start of the race by the air horn to the point where the participant crosses the finish line. Times will be rounded to the next highest second. Net times (“chip” times) will not be used for any purpose regarding Elite Development participants.
Elite Athlete Program
The Elite Development Program is not to be confused with the Elite Athlete Program. Acceptance into the Elite Athlete Program is not based on specific qualifying times, rather by recent performances at U.S. and international competitions, potential finish time, potential finish place and the discretion of the Executive Race Director. The Elite Start Corral is an event operations offering and not to be misconstrued as a professional athlete classification.
For more information e-mail eliteathlete@chicagomarathon.com.