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FEATURED EVENTS: LAKEFRONT 10 | SPRING TRAIL CHASE | 'GO RUN | CHI-TOWN MILES
WINTER TRAINING: SPRING HALF TRAINING | SUMMER MARATHON TRAINING
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Dates
July 3 to September 24, 2023
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Saturdays - Long Runs
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Wednesdays - Track Workouts
Description
Group training targeting the Chicago Half-Marathon, and other summer races.
Locations
Chicago
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Overview
CARA's "Power of the Group" will provide you the support, community, and accountability you need to successfully reach the finish line.
As Chicago's premier group training program, we have helped tens of thousands of runners successfully complete their goals. Whether you're a newcomer or experienced runner, our program provides training plans that meet you where you're at.
You will never have to go it alone. Your pace group leaders and fellow participants will give you the Power of the Group that has led CARA runners to the finish line more than any other program in Chicagoland running.
Your training program is led by CARA coaches who have national certifications and years of proven coaching success long before we bring them into CARA.
Program Details
Program Benefits:
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12-week training plan with four options (Novice, Novice II, Advanced, Run/Walk)
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Training guide and weekly education newsletters
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Video guided half-marathon tailored strength training plan
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Group training long Runs (Saturdays) led by group leaders for 7:30 to 11:30 pace/per mile run, and 12:00 to 13:00 pace/per mile run/walk
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Coach led track workouts (Wednesdays)
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Hydration support at training runs, including water and Gatorade Endurance
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RUSH Physical Therapy Injury Hotline
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CARA Training Tech Tank
Suggested Race/s:
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Chicago Half-Marathon (9/24)
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Hidden Gem Half Marathon
Group Long Run Location
Chicago - Downtown
Monroe Harbor
Saturdays 6:00 a.m.
Chicago - Lincoln Park
Diversey Harbor
Saturdays 6:00 a.m.
Group Track Workout Locations
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Wednesdays @ 6:00 a.m. at Lake Shore Park Track (Chicago)
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Wednesdays @ 6:30 p.m. at Montrose Beach Wilson Track (Chicago)
Program Fees & Registration
Group Training: $160
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Save 15% ($24 Discount) - 2022 CARA Supporter Level Members
Members receive discount by logging in with membership username/password during registration.
Online registration payments are subject to a service fee by our registration provider. To avoid online payment fees, send a check for the amount owed to CARA 1540 S. Ashland Ave, Suite 201, Chicago, IL 60608. Provide full name, e-mail, phone number and note that check is for summer half-marathon training program fees. CARA will then contact to complete registration.
Interested in our Virtual Summer Half Marathon Training program? Click HERE for more details.
Volunteer
CARA training programs rely on dedicated volunteer site coordinators, group leaders, and coaches to support program participants, and provide a safe and enjoyable experience for all.
Site coordinators are recruited from experienced program group leaders. Those interested in becoming a site coordinator now, or in the future as openings are available, should contact CARA Director of Training Tim Bradley (tim@cararuns.org).
Group leaders are the backbone of CARA training programs. Group leaders keep runners safe, organized, on-pace, and motivated during training runs. Those interested becoming a group leader can learn more HERE.
Coaches are needed to support CARA track workouts. Experienced coaches may be tabbed with leading a workout, where others can assist with workout organization and timing while learning. Those interested in becoming a coach or assistant coach should contact CARA Director of Training Tim Bradley (tim@cararuns.org).
Hydration Volunteers are needed to support hydration stations at training locations. Volunteers may volunteer for a single date, or a season. Interested volunteers can check out opportunities on our volunteer page.
COVID-19 Safety
Participation expectations are as follows:
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Participants are expected to wear a mask or face covering when gathering pre- or post-run until they are two weeks post full vaccination for COVID19. Per CDC guidance, fully vaccinated participants are not required to wear a mask or face covering while gathering pre or post-run.
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Do not participate if you are feeling sick or ill, and or have a fever, or if you are unvaccinated and have been in contact with someone unrecovered from COVID-19.
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Persons from high-risk groups for COVID-19 complications should consult their physician before participating.
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Participants are encouraged to avoid traditional forms of physical contact (handshakes, high-fives, hugs, partner stretching, etc.), as well as close group gathering (group pictures, etc.).
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Do not spit or blow nose while running in the group.
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Do not share personal items, such as hydration, energy gels, towels, etc.
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Participants may be required to exit programs/events temporarily or permanently should their actions not meet expectations and or they are creating risk for themselves or others.