About CARA

The Chicago Area Runners Association (CARA) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization devoted to expanding, motivating, supporting and celebrating the running community of Chicagoland. CARA connects runners to resources that enable them to run—farther, faster, better, for life.

Quick Facts

• CARA is a not-for-profit organization that was founded in 1978.
• We have more than 8,600 members.
• We are the largest running organization in the Midwest and the third largest in the nation.
• We are your complete source for recreational running and racing in Chicagoland.
• We produce training and fitness programs for all levels of runners.
• We provide high-quality races and race circuits.