What is the official name and date of the event?

• →The event is the 2026 F³ Lake Half Marathon and 5K.
• →It takes place on Saturday, January 31, 2026.

Where is the event located?

• →The start and finish line are located at the United Club inside Soldier Field.
• →The specific address is 1410 Special Olympics Drive, Chicago, IL 60605.

What distances are available for this event?

• →Half Marathon (13.1 miles) starting at 10:01 AM CST.
• →5K (3.1 miles) starting at 10:28 AM CST.

What is the course surface and scenery?

• →The course surface is paved lakefront trails and city streets.
• →The scenery includes views of Lake Michigan, the Chicago downtown skyline, and city landmarks.

What are the course markings and safety protocols?

• →Mile markers are identified with F³ teardrop flags.
• →Turnarounds are staffed by paid course marshals.
• →Cones with clipped signs assist with navigation.
• →Runners are responsible for knowing the course and navigating winter conditions such as wind, cold, and possible ice.

Where are the aid stations located?

• →Waldron Dr (5K mile 1): Water.
• →31st Street (Half Marathon miles 2.5 & 11.5): Water, energy drink, and toilets.
• →Oakwood Blvd (Half Marathon miles 4 & 10): Water, energy drink, and toilets.
• →Promontory Point (Half Marathon miles 6 & 8): Water, energy drink, gel, and toilets.

What pacing support is available?

• →Pacing groups are provided by Chicago Endurance Sports.
• →Available paces include: 1:30, 1:40, 1:50, 2:00, 2:10, 2:20, 2:30, 2:45, and 3:00.

What is included with registration (swag and finisher experience)?

• →A hooded sweatshirt (not a standard T-shirt).
• →A custom finisher medal.
• →A themed finisher gift (e.g., mittens).
• →Pre-purchased merchandise ships weekly in January (until Jan 20 or while supplies last).
• →Extra F³ gear is available for purchase online.

Are there prize money awards?

• →Open Division:

• 1st: $1,000

• 2nd: $500

• 3rd: $400

• 4th: $300

• 5th: $200

• →Masters Division (40+):

• 1st (M/W): $350

• 2nd: $250

• 3rd: $150

• →Double-Dip Rule: Masters athletes are eligible to win prizes in both the Open and Masters divisions.

What are the race time limits?

• →The Half Marathon has a time limit aligned with pacing groups, up to 3:00 (3 hours).

Is the event certified?

• →Half Marathon: USATF IL18061NM
• →5K: USATF IL18060NM

What facilities are available at the start and finish?

• →The start and finish are inside the warm, indoor United Club at Soldier Field.