CHICAGO (August 11, 2004)--Registration for The 2004 LaSalle Bank Chicago Marathon will close at Midnight (CST) on Thursday, August 12 when the 40,000 participant cap will be reached. Participation in The LaSalle Bank Chicago Marathon has been on a dramatic incline during the past several years. Just ten years ago, registration was only 10,021 and now registration comes to its 40,000 cap and closes two months before the race. It is expected that 1 million spectators will line the 26.2-mile course on race day. Please go to www.chicagomarathon.com in order to register.

"We will reach our 40,000 participant cap faster than we ever have and registration will close tomorrow night," said Event Chairman and Chief Marketing Officer for LaSalle Bank, Mark A. Nystuen. "Registration closing so quickly is due to the increased popularity of running and a testament to the quality of the event we bring to the city of Chicago every year. This is the last chance for runners to register and participate in this year's race."

"It is truly gratifying to see how popular the Marathon has become over the years," says Executive Race Director Carey Pinkowski. "Race weekend has become an event that the entire city of Chicago can rally around to embrace tradition and celebrate athletic excellence."

2004 LaSalle Bank Chicago Marathon The LaSalle Bank Chicago Marathon takes place Sunday, October 10 at 8 a.m. The race both starts and finishes in Chicago's Grant Park. CBS 2 CHICAGO, official broadcast partner of the LaSalle Bank Chicago Marathon, and ESPN 1000, official radio partner, will present live coverage.