A marathon – 26.2 miles – is considered the ultimate achievement for a runner. It’s a test of endurance, requiring months of training and strength of mind and spirit. On Oct. 12, Abbott was proud to sponsor the 2014 Bank of America Chicago Marathon, cheering 45,000 runners on as they set out to achieve their personal bests.
 

The event energized the entire city and proved that inspiration can be contagious. More than 1.7 million spectators lined the streets as runners raced through 29 Chicago neighborhoods. We were among the fans encouraging the athletes to push further and cross the finish line.

Here are some of our favorite moments that reinforced our belief that at our healthiest people can accomplish amazing feats.

Race participants represented more than 100 countries.	Hundreds of Abbott employees turned out to cheer thousands of Chicago Marathon runners at Mile 25.
The crowd and runners interacted throughout the course.	Three elite runners beam after they cross the finish line.
In the men’s wheelchair competition, the top 11 men finished within 11 seconds of each other.	Before race day, we energized thousands of runners and guests at the Abbott Health & Fitness Expo and asked them to celebrate living their fullest life.

For more information about Abbott’s sponsorship of the 2014 Bank of America Chicago Marathon, click here.

To learn more about Abbott’s partnership the World Marathon Majors, please click here.