CHICAGO (WBBM NEWSRADIO) -- The 43rd Bank of America Chicago Marathon returns to the streets of Chicago on Sunday, Oct. 10, but it still won't be like years past due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.
In order to keep a safe racing environment for all 35,000 registered participants, organizers announced Tuesday updated COVID-19 guidelines.
Registered participants are required to provide proof of a complete COVID-19 vaccination series or a negative COVID-19 test result to participate in the 2021 Bank of America Chicago Marathon. Registered participants who are not fully vaccinated are required to provide a negative COVID-19 test result for a test administered within 72 hours of attending the Bank of America Chicago Marathon.
The event defines “fully vaccinated” as individuals who are two weeks after their second dose in a two-dose vaccine series or two weeks after a single-dose vaccine.
Proof of vaccination or a negative COVID-19 test will also be required to enter the Abbott Health & Fitness Expo. Organizers said those who are unable to prove full vaccination or a negative test will be barred from entering the expo and will be unable to pick up their necessary race materials needed to participate in the marathon.
Organizer added that the policy recognizes COVID-19 vaccines authorized for use by the Federal Drug Administration (FDA) and the World Health Organization (WHO). Accepted COVID-19 tests are those that have received FDA emergency use authorization (EUA) and include RT-PCR, RT-LAMP, lateral flow, and rapid antigen tests.
Additionally, all attendees will be required to wear face coverings while at indoor event venues, including the Abbott Health & Fitness Expo. Face coverings must be two-ply at a minimum and cover the mouth and nose securely. Organizer said single-ply neck gaiters and face shields are not acceptable face coverings.
Participants are also encouraged to wear face coverings in Grant Park prior to starting the race. Additional face coverings will be available post-finish for participants.
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