1984 OLYMPIC GOLD MEDALIST AND 1985 BANK OF AMERICA CHICAGO MARATHON CHAMPION JOAN BENOIT SAMUELSON WITHDRAWS FROM 40TH ANNUAL CHICAGO MARATHON 2017

Today the Bank of America Chicago Marathon announced that 1984 Olympic gold medalist and 1985 Chicago Marathon champion Joan Benoit Samuelson is putting her record chase on hold.

Samuelson announced this summer that she was targeting the 40th anniversary Bank of America Chicago Marathon to start the next chapter in her career by becoming the first woman at age 60 run a sub three marathon. Due to training setbacks as a result of an injury, Samuelson will not be competing in this year’s race on October 8.

“Joan is a champion, and while we would love to celebrate a new record and career milestone with her, we are looking forward to having her here in Chicago to cheer on more than 40,000 runners,” said Carey Pinkowski, Bank of America Chicago Marathon Executive Race Director. “We are honored any time a running icon like Joan comes to Chicago.”

“October 8 has been on my calendar for some time, but I need to put my goals and my story on hold for now,” said Samuelson. “Chicago holds a special place in my career, and while I cannot compete this year, I am looking forward to cheering on thousands of runners as they chase their goals and tell their stories on race day.”

Bank of America Chicago Marathon