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

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: CHICAGO – The Chicago Area Runners Association (CARA) is launching a new community partnership pilot for the 2026 racing season, developed in collaboration with our Outreach & Inclusion Committee , aimed to build access, belonging, and shared momentum across Chicago's running community. The  Run With CARA: Community Partner Program  is a year-long pilot designed to build intentional, mutually beneficial relationships with Chicago-based running organiz