If you've been thinking about running the 2006 LaSalle Bank Chicago Marathon, register soon: The marathon now has 30,000 participants registered and is expected to hit its capacity of 40,000 runners in record time. At its current rate, registration will close during the first week of June, more than a month in advance of the mark set in 2005.

"This increase in advance registration clearly illustrates the popularity and the value the running community sees in being part of the Chicago Marathon experience," says Executive Race Director Carey Pinkowski. "The demand and response has been humbling and gratifying. In its first year, the Chicago Marathon hosted just over 4,000 runners. We now register a field of 40,000, attract 1.5 million spectators, raise more than $6 million for 60 charities and assemble a world-class elite field that will chase not only our $650,000 prize purse, but the $1 million offering from the inaugural series of the World Marathon Majors."

Runners interested in participating in The 29th LaSalle Bank Chicago Marathon are encouraged to submit their online applications as soon as possible. Registration for the event will close once 40,000 participants are registered. Registration can be completed at www.chicagomarathon.com. The entrance fee for the Marathon is $90 for U.S. runners and $100 for international runners.

The 2006 LaSalle Bank Chicago Marathon will take place Sunday, October 22, and will start and finish in Grant Park.

Elite athletes will compete for a portion of the highest prize purse in the sport ($650,000), while also competing in the World Marathon Majors, a series of the five most prestigious marathons in the world. The complete field of 40,000 athletes will represent all 50 states and more than 122 countries.

The Health & Fitness Expo will take place Friday, October 20 and Saturday, October 21, 2006 at McCormick Place. The weekend will include more than 150 exhibitors featuring the newest designs in running gear and shoes, as well as the latest developments in sports, fitness and nutrition.

For more information visit on The LaSalle Bank Chicago Marathon visit www.chicagomarathon.com or call (312) 904-9800.