The LaSalle Bank Chicago Distance Classic has redesigned its course to incorporate sections of the LaSalle Bank Chicago Marathon route including the start and finish in historic Grant Park and early miles in the Loop. The Distance Classic on Aug. 13 is a popular training run for those who plan to run the LaSalle Bank Chicago Marathon.

"In talking to some of the 2005 participants it was obvious we needed to redesign this course," said Chicago Marathon Executive Race Director Carey Pinkowski, who also directs the LaSalle Bank Chicago Distance Classic. "The result is a route that connects the past to the present by incorporating the great start and finish experience of The LaSalle Bank Chicago Marathon as well as the lakefront path that was utilized in the early years of the original Chicago Distance Classic."

The 13.1-mile course will begin by following the 8K format of The LaSalle Bank Shamrock Shuffle heading north out of Grant Park on Columbus and circling through downtown Chicago. Runners will then head south on Lakeshore Drive for a quick tour of the lakefront turning north on the bike path and cruising through the Museum campus before crossing the historic Marathon finish line in Grant Park.

The LaSalle Bank Chicago Distance Classic will host its 30th annual race on Sunday, August 13, continuing its tradition as the oldest road race in Chicago. Operated by John Bingham Racing, this is the first year that LaSalle Bank has served as title sponsor.

Registration for the half marathon as well as The Whole Foods Market 5K Run/Walk is currently available online at www.chicagodistanceclassic.com. Since the announcement of LaSalle Bank's involvement, the rate of registration has increased significantly and is currently at approximately 8,000, the highest total registration to date in the history of the event. Registration will close at 10,000 participants.