Step Up. Stand Together.
Run Chicago for Ben.
Sunday 11th October 2026
Registration fee: £50
Fundraising Target: £2,500
Enter our ballot here
We're excited to offer this incredible new opportunity to take part in the iconic Chicago marathon while raising money for your industry charity, Ben. Whether you’re a seasoned runner chasing a new PB or simply looking for an inspiring fitness challenge, this challenge is for runners who will finish within 6.5 hours.
Enter our ballot, and you could be one of just three runners selected to take on the iconic Chicago Marathon for Ben. Be quick, our ballot closes on Saturday, 31st January 2026.
Starting and finishing in Grant Park, the Chicago Marathon takes you through the heart of one of the world’s most spectacular cities, weaving through 29 vibrant neighbourhoods filled with iconic landmarks and streets lined with cheering crowds.
As one of the legendary Abbott World Marathon Majors, it’s celebrated for its flat, fast course, record-breaking performances and electric atmosphere. With perfect running conditions - dry and mild with highs around 19°C, the Chicago Marathon is an unmissable, world-class event that runners everywhere aspire to conquer.
But this isn’t just about crossing the finish line - it’s about making a real difference. Every mile you run will help transform the lives of people in our industry who need support most.
Enter our ballot today!
Enter our ballot today for the chance to be part of something incredible - enter our ballot, and you could be one of just three runners selected to take on the iconic Chicago Marathon for Ben.
Check out our FAQs for more information.
Our ballot closes on Saturday, 31st January 2026. Once it’s wrapped up, we’ll reach out by Friday, 13th February, to let you know whether you’ve secured a spot.
How much do I need to fundraise?
Every step you take and every pound you raise, will help Ben be there for automotive people who are struggling with their health, wellbeing, or finances. That’s why we’re asking all participants to commit to a minimum fundraising target of £2,500.
Your fundraising is what turns this event into life-changing support for those who need it most. Let’s make every mile matter and every pound count.
Ready to make a difference? Enter our ballot to be in with a chance
Need more information? Check out our FAQs.
Run the iconic Chicago Marathon and change lives with Ben
FAQs
How long is the ballot open?
Our ballot closes on Saturday, 31st January 2026. Once it’s wrapped up, we’ll reach out by Friday, 13th February, to let you know whether you’ve secured a spot.
How far is the race?
26.2 Miles
What time does it start?
It starts at 07:30am on Sunday, 11th October 2026, starting and finishing at Grant Park in Chicago.
What time do I need to complete the marathon?
You'll need to complete within 6 hours and 30 minutes.
Do I need to train?
Depending on your fitness level and whether you run already, you may need to consider training for the event. Runna, the official training partner of the event, has provided some top tips for a successful race day.
You can also enjoy a free 2-week trial of the Runna app using the code REALBUZZRUNNA1. Find your perfect training plan, whether it’s your first-ever marathon or you’re looking to nail that all-important PB.
What travel arrangements are there?
You must fund and book your own transport to the USA for this event, and your accommodation etc.
Will I need ID?
You must have photo ID on the day with you to be accepted into the race.
How much money do I need to raise?
We will give you tips and advice to ensure you reach or exceed your fundraising goal and support you along the way. For this challenge event, we simply ask that you raise the minimum fundraising target of £2,500.
99.8% of automotive workers were personally affected by a health and wellbeing issue in the past 12 months. By taking on this challenge and fundraising for Ben, you’re helping us to make a life-changing difference to even more people in our industry.
What if I can't raise the fundraising total?
We will give you tips and advice to ensure you reach or exceed your fundraising goal and support you along the way but would ask you to consider if you will the raise the target set. Each place comes with a cost to Ben so we need to ensure that your fundraising will benefit members of our automotive family.
Can I talk to someone about signing up?
Of course, we're here to help. Contact our friendly Events team on eventsteam@ben.org.uk
Enter our ballot
Our ballot closes on Saturday 31st January 2026. Once it’s wrapped up, we’ll reach out by Friday 13th February 2026, to let you know whether you’ve secured a spot.
Other running challenges
TCS London Marathon 2027
The World's most famous marathon is one of life's great challenges. Will you Do It 4 Ben?
Choose your own running event
If you can't find an event in our list that inspires you, did you know that you can support Ben at a third party event or even organise your own? Download our Do It 4 Ben fundraising toolkit today, your support will make a life-changing difference to someone in our automotive family.