OH, AND
DA beer

At the finish, participants will be rewarded with Da Beer. Because nothing says “legendary athlete” like rocking a ‘stache while crushing Da’fficial Beer of Chicago.

Course Map

Option 1

Pick up your packet prior to the race at:

Coming soon.

Thursday, October 1
4:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.

Friday, October 2
12:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.

Option 2

Have a friend or family member pick up your race packet for you by presenting your QR code prior to the race (location, dates, and times listed above).

Option 3

Race Day Packet Pick-Up. For $15 per race packet, you can pick up your race packet on race day at the race site from 9:00 a.m. – 10:45 a.m. You can sign up for this service during the registration process.

Only those who register for Race Day Packet Pick-Up will be able to pick up their race packet on race day.

Start Time

Wave 1 – 10:00 a.m.
Wave 2 – 11:00 a.m.

Pro Tip: Pick your wave early. When it’s full, it’s full. No late adds. No whining. That’s Ditka math.

Race Location

Soldier Field
1410 Special Olympics Dr
Chicago, IL 60605

Parking & Transportation

Participants are encouraged to carpool or use public transportation to Soldier Field. If you drive, allow sufficient time for heavy traffic and street closures.

Soldier Field Parking
Parking will be available in the North Garage, South Lot, and Waldron Garage for $20. Payment is required as you enter. For more information, visit www.soldierfieldparking.com.

Drop Off Locations
Rideshares and vehicles dropping off participants will be directed by traffic officials to the main Museum Campus visitor entrance on McFetridge Drive or the 18th Street Metra drop-off. Vehicles should exit Lake Shore Drive at either McFetridge Drive or 18th Street, then proceed to the designated drop-off point.

SpotHero
Book convenient parking in advance through SpotHero. To reserve your parking spot, visit the Ditka Dash SpotHero parking page.

Weather Policy

The Ditka Dash will take place rain or shine. In the event of inclement weather (e.g., lightning) or other conditions that may affect the safety and health of participants, race officials reserve the right to delay, postpone, or cancel the race. All registrations are nonrefundable and nontransferable.

Distance

5K (3.1 miles)

Start Location

Soldier Field
1410 Special Olympics Dr
Chicago, IL 60605

Timing

The Ditka Dash powered by Da Beer will feature the Dash-O-Meter 3000, Chicago’s only timing system blessed by mustaches and Midwestern grit. Every Ditka gets their very own Dash-O-Meter 3000 strapped to their official bib so fans, rivals, and even the occasional sausage vendor know exactly how fast you’re moving.

Time Limit

Participants must maintain at least a 20:00 minute pace per mile.

Needs

• Course Marshal

• Start Line and Finish Line

• Aid Station

• Gear Check

• Packet Pick-Up

• Water Station

For more information, please email info@ditkadash.com.

Refund Policy

All registrations are nonrefundable and nontransferable. No exceptions. As with all events, proceeds from the event are used to cover the numerous nonrefundable pre and post-race expenses required to produce the event (e.g., venue rental, city permits, park district permits, medical personnel, police and traffic control, security, participant shirts, finisher medals, bib numbers, timing chips, equipment rental, participant food and refreshments, tents and staging, event staff, signage, event supplies, portable restrooms, etc.).

Weather Policy

The Ditka Dash will take place rain or shine. In the event of inclement weather (e.g., lightning) or other conditions that may affect the safety and health of participants, race officials reserve the right to delay, postpone, or cancel the race.

Lightning Policy

In the event of lightning, the race will be postponed 30 minutes if lightning is detected within a 10 mile radius. Additionally, every time lightning is detected within a 10 mile radius, the 30 minute timing increment will restart.

Can I get a refund?

All registrations are nonrefundable.

Can I walk the race?

Yes, walkers are welcome to participate. Please note all participants must maintain at least a 20:00 minute pace per mile.

Where can I find my bib number?

Bib numbers will be assigned at Packet Pick-Up.

Can a third party pick up my race packet?

Yes, a third party can pick up your race packet during the designated Packet Pick-Up times. To do so, they will need to present a copy of your unique QR code.

Can I exchange my shirt size at Packet Pick-Up?

Unfortunately, no. Race shirts have already been ordered and we need to honor what everyone ordered. On race day, we'll bring any extra shirts to the race site. Once the race has started, and assuming we have your size, we'll be happy to exchange it for you.

Can race packets me mailed?

Mailing race packets is not an option. If you are unable to pick up your race packet, we suggest having a third party pick it up for you. To do so, they will need to present a copy of your unique QR code.

I am having trouble registering, is there someone I can contact?

For assistance, please contact Active.com support.

Rules & Regulations

Awards

Awards

• Top Three (3) Male and Female Finishers

• Biggest Ditka Dash Team

• Best Team Name

• Biggest Ditka-Pede

• Best Ditka-Pede Costume