Des Linden Returns to Chicago Marathon for 100-Mile Race Preparation — image accompanying Marathon Handbook's report. Image accompanying Marathon Handbook’s report; reduced and presented for news commentary with the attributed report. View the complete source report.
Des Linden, a two-time Olympian, is set to run in the 2026 Chicago Marathon, marking her return to professional racing. Linden, who ran her last marathon in Boston in 2025, aims to use Chicago as part of her preparation for a 100-mile race later this fall.
Her personal best of 2:22:38 ranks her third among American women in the field, behind Sara Hall and Susanna Sullivan. Linden's career highlights include winning the 2018 Boston Marathon and setting a 50K world record in 2021. Read more culture coverage.
Linden's performance in Chicago will be closely watched, as it is a record-eligible course, unlike Boston's. She will compete alongside Sara Hall, who holds the American masters record, and Kara Goucher, her podcast co-host, who will be commentating the race. Related: Vinny Mauri to Challenge Elite Field in 2026 Chicago Marathon.
This original Runner World brief is based on reporting from Marathon Handbook. Visit the source for its complete reporting, context and any later corrections.
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Questions about this report
What should runners know about Des Linden Returns to Chicago Marathon for 100-Mile Race Preparation?
Des Linden, former Boston Marathon winner, joins Chicago's elite field as she prepares for her first 100-mile race. Des Linden, a two-time Olympian, is set to run in the 2026 Chicago Marathon, marking her return to professional racing. Linden, who ran her last marathon in Boston in 2025, aims to use Chicago as part of her preparation for a 100-mile race later this fall.
When did Runner World publish this culture brief?
Runner World published this brief on October 9, 2026. The underlying Marathon Handbook report was dated October 9, 2026.
Where can readers find the complete original report?
This summary is based on reporting from Marathon Handbook. The attributed source link in the article leads to the publisher’s complete report.
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