CHICAGO, IL - Registration for the 2004 LaSalle Bank Chicago Marathon is now open. Last year1s race attracted the maximum 40,000 participants, with the registration cap closing in record time. The race is on Sunday, Oct. 10.

Runners can register on-line at www.chicagomarathon.com until Sept. 2, or when the participation capacity has been reached. Race weekend entries will not be accepted. Printed entry forms for mail-in registration will be available in the spring.

"Over the past ten years, the LaSalle Bank Chicago Marathon has steadily grown, and we1re proud that the race attracts so many runners," said Carey Pinkowski, executive race director. "Since the Marathon has become so popular, and since the registration capacity is always met well before the given deadline, I encourage anyone interested in participating to register as soon as possible."

Qualifying times are not needed, but runners must be at least 16 years of age on race day and all runners under 18 must have an entry form waiver signed by a parent or guardian. All participants must begin the Marathon during the official start and complete the course within 6 hours and 30 minutes to be eligible for an official finish time.

The entrance fee for the Marathon is $80 for U.S. runners and $90 for international runners; the registration fee for the International Fun Run 5K, held during race weekend, is $15 for both U.S. and international participants. Senior citizens, ages 60 and older, receive a $5 discount. In addition, a $5 discount will be offered to participants who register using their MasterCard credit card or pre-paid card.

Runners interested in securing Competitive or Preferred starting positions must have completed a marathon or half-marathon since Jan. 1, 2002 in a time faster than 3:15:00 for a Competitive Start (marathon qualifying time) and 3:45:00 (marathon qualifying time) for a Preferred Start. A half-marathon time of 1:30:00 is needed for a Competitive Start and a half-marathon time of 1:45:00 is needed for a Preferred Start. Proof of qualifying times must be submitted to The LaSalle Bank Chicago Marathon office. Instructions will be provided to on-line entrants. Competitive and Preferred Starting Positions are limited and not guaranteed.

For complete information, go to www.chicagomarathon.com