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Celebrating Global Partnerships: Chicago Sister Cities International at the 2025 Marathon

The 2025 Bank of America Chicago Marathon stands as a testament to international camaraderie, celebrating not just a race but the bonds nurtured over decades. This year, the Chicago Sister Cities International (CSCI), an initiative under World Business Chicago, proudly commemorates its 65th anniversary. In joining the marathon festivities, CSCI will spotlight Chicago's global partnerships by hosting numerous activities along the marathon route and at various pre-race events, reinforcing the city's identity as a hub for cultural exchange and global understanding.

The marathon, set against the backdrop of iconic Chicago landmarks, is a gathering of runners and spectators from around the world. The celebrations will kick off with a series of receptions designed to welcome international runners, underscoring the mission of CSCI to cultivate and maintain meaningful connections with the cities with whom Chicago shares sister city relationships. This year promises to bring together residents and tourists in an energized celebration of diversity, friendship, and cultural pride.

What’s in Store at the Marathon

CSCI Activations

Expo Booth
One of the highlights will be the CSCI booth at the Abbott Health Fitness Expo, running from October 9-11. This free event at Chicago's McCormick Place invites the public to engage with CSCI volunteers. There, attendees can explore a variety of exhibitors showcasing exclusive Bank of America Chicago Marathon merchandise, as well as running shoes, apparel, nutrition, and technology tailored for athletes.

Cheering Stations
The enthusiasm doesn’t stop at the booths. The marathon route will feature designated cheering stations, confirming the event's tradition of fostering a supportive atmosphere for runners and their supporters. These stations, listed on the Bank of America Chicago Marathon app, will buzz with energy and warmth, welcoming runners while celebrating Chicago's rich tapestry of global connections.

Each cheering station is strategically placed to represent the spirit of various sister cities:

• - Gothenburg, Sweden: The Swedish committee will cheer at MILE 8.
• - Galway, Ireland: At MILE 9.6, Irish runners will receive spirited support from the Galway Committee.
• - Toronto, Canada: The committee will foster a strong Canadian presence at MILE 9.75.
• - Warsaw, Poland: Attendees can expect words of encouragement at MILE 10 from the Polish committee continuing the tradition of support.
• - Osaka, Japan: Featuring the beat of the Ho Etsu Taiko Drums at MILE 11, the Osaka Committee promises to energize the crowd alongside Japanese marathon participants.
• - Paris, France: French runners can count on support from the Paris Committee at MILE 11.25.
• - Hamburg, Germany: The cheering station at MILE 11.75 will bolster German runners.
• - Sydney, Australia: Australian athletes will find support at MILE 12.8, as the Sydney Committee backs them.
• - Bogota, Colombia: Registered runners from Colombia will be cheered on at MILE 12.9.
• - Kyiv, Ukraine: The Kyiv Committee will unite with the Ukrainian Running Club Chicago to support at MILE 13.4.
• - Athens, Greece: Hailing at MILE 17.2, the Athens Committee will additionally raise their voices for Greek participants.
• - Prague, Czech Republic: At MILE 19.35, encouragement from the Czech committee will soar.
• - Durban, South Africa: Alongside an additional cheering station for the Black Chicago Runners at MILE 24.4, the Durban committee will cheer for its countrymen.
• - Mexico City, Mexico: At MILE 25, runners from Mexico will be met with support as they near the finish.

Welcome Receptions

For the first time, nine Sister City Committees will extend warm welcomes through exclusive receptions for marathoners, allowing an opportunity to deepen cultural ties. Committees from Athens, China, Durban, Galway, Gothenburg, Kyiv, Milan, Prague, and Sydney are set to host these significant gatherings, reinforcing the bond between Chicagoans and international visitors.

This year’s marathon and its associated events represent a colorful tapestry of global cultures, building communal ties that span continents. The dedicated displays from Sister City Committees embody the essence of Chicago, showcasing its commitment to fostering international friendships through cultural and athletic endeavors. In every cheer and every warm welcome, participants and spectators alike will feel the spirit of unity, proudly showcasing that the Chicago Marathon truly encapsulates the world.

From pre-race receptions to the final finish line, the 2025 Chicago Marathon stands poised to remind everyone that sports are more than competition; they are a celebration of global unity that bridges gaps and brings people together across borders.