The Chicago Area Runners Association (CARA) is excited to announce the following key 2027 Chicago Racing Circuit events listed below. The landscape of distance running includes races that are selling out faster than ever, so runners are encouraged to sign up now for events currently open and to register as soon as registration opens for the remaining races. Sunday, March 21 - Bank of America Shamrock Shuffle 8K (Chicago) Sunday, April 11 - CARA Lakefront 10 Miler (Chicago) Su

It is with heavy hearts that we share the passing of Evan DeBock. Evan was a beloved husband, son, brother, friend, and staff member of the Chicago Area Runners Association. Evan passed away on August 21 at the age of 28. His reach and impact were immense. Evan started his professional career with CARA straight out of college over four years ago. He quickly made his mark as our Charity and Sponsorship Manager. He was responsible for doubling our charity team of runners for

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Launching April 28, the new collaboration brings weekly community runs and scenic exploration to the hotel’s signature Vitality program. CHICAGO - The Chicago Area Runners Association (CARA) is excited to announce a new partnership with Swissôtel Chicago , an award-winning luxury hotel overlooking the Chicago River and Lake Michigan. Grounded in a shared commitment to health and wellness, this collaboration marks a significant expansion of the hotel’s s

Member Spotlight - Eileen Tull When someone expressed concern to Tull about being able to run the Chicago Marathon, she did not quit and instead created a one-woman show about it. Too Fat To Run by Eileen Tull shares a story that is both deeply personal and universally relatable; the experience of chasing a big goal while navigating doubt, judgement, and the relationship we have with our bodies. We got a chance to speak to Eileen to learn more about the message behind her s

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: CHICAGO – The Chicago Area Runners Association (CARA) is excited to announce the complete schedule for the 2026 Chicago Racing Circuit. Key races were previously announced in October of 2025. The remaining selections have now been finalized. Since 1979, the Circuit has provided Chicago’s running community with a competitive structure that celebrates performance, consistency, and camaraderie across local races. In 2026, the Circuit will once again feat

It is with a heavy heart that we share the passing of CARA Member Laura Maslanka, 46. Over the past 5 years, Laura has been a leader not only with CARA, but with the entire Chicago fitness community. Laura was an active CARA member, contributing to our community through her friendship and service of others. After participating in CARA Training, Laura stepped up to become the site coordinator for the Waveland Long Run Site, a volunteer commitment that occupied every Saturday