2026 F^3 Lake Half Marathon and 5K

The 2026 F³ Lake Half Marathon and 5K is scheduled to take place on January 31, 2026, in Chicago, United States. The event begins and ends at Soldier Field’s United Club, providing an indoor, heated environment for participants before and after the race. In late January, Chicago typically experiences winter conditions, including cold temperatures, wind, and potential snow or ice on the ground. The course runs along the paved lakefront trail and city streets, offering views of the downtown skyline and Lake Michigan. Participants can expect a community-focused race with pacing support, aid stations, and specific finisher apparel and medals.

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.