More than 2000 first-time and returning marathoners from all parts of the Chicago area will start the popular 18-week "CARA LaSalle Bank Chicago Marathon Training Program." now in its 14th year, at one of five city or suburban locations, as they prepare to run the world's fastest marathon course:

Monday, June 10, 7:00 p.m. at Lake Zurich High School, 300 Church St., Lake Zurich;

Tuesday, June 11, 6:30 p.m. at Children's Memorial Hospital, 707 W. Fullerton Ave., Chicago;

Wednesday, June 12, 7:00 p.m. at Tinley Park High School, 6111 W. 175th St., Tinley Park;

Thursday, June 13, 7:00 p.m. at Glenbard West High School, 670 Crescent Blvd., Glen Ellyn;

Friday, June 14, 12 Noon, at James R. Thompson Center, 100 W. Randolph St., Chicago.

Pre-registration and packet pickup is available at Fleet Feet Sports, 210 W. North Ave. in Chicago, on Friday, May 31, 3:00 - 8:00 p.m.; Saturday, June 1, 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.; Sunday, June 2, 12 Noon to 5:00 p.m.; and following a 3-6 mile fun run on Monday, June 3, 6:30 p.m.

The program kicks off with an overview of marathon preparation, followed by weekly clinics featuring expert speakers on training methods, shoe selection, injury prevention, and nutrition. A pre-race clinic, two weeks before the October 13 marathon, addresses race strategy and recovery.

Runners participate in weekend long runs in Chicago, Niles, Libertyville, Lake Zurich, Crystal Lake, Western Springs, Glen Ellyn, Warrenville, St. Charles or Tinley Park, where they run in groups at their own pace, many slower than ten minutes per mile, and each led by an experienced marathoner who trained in the program. They run on their own during the week.

"Marathoners come in all shapes, sizes, ages, and running levels." exclaimed David Patt, CARA's CEO. "If you come prepared, attend the clinics, and follow the training schedule, you should be able to complete the 26.2 mile course on race day, no matter who you are." Participants must have been running regularly for at least one year, and currently be running at least twenty miles per week, including a long of run of at least six miles. Beginning runners should not consider running a marathon this year.

"You don't have to be a fast runner to finish a marathon," Patt stated, "but you can't just jump off the couch and run 26 miles. Brand new runners should get their bodies used to running first. They can think about the marathon next year."

Hal Higdon, renowned masters runner and senior writer for Runner's World magazine, serves as consultant to the program, participating in several clinics during the season. His "Marathon: The Ultimate Training Guide" is the program textbook.

All participants receive the Higdon book or a substitute text, a booklet of running schedules, and a coolmax singlet, and are admitted to a special tent for gear check and refreshments before and after the marathon on race day.

Fees are $120 for CARA members, $140 for non-members, with discounts for program alumni. On-line registration is available at www. cararuns.org. Call CARA (312) 666-9836 for additional information.

CARA's LaSalle Bank Chicago Marathon Training Program is sponsored by LaSalle Bank, New Balance Athletics, Wendy's, AthletiCo, Clif Bar, Fleet Feet Sports, Gatorade, Goose Island Brewery, and Chicago Athlete magazine.

Chicago Area Runners Association (CARA) is an 8600 member, not-for-profit organization founded in 1978 to promote health and fitness through running.