Mo Farah to Race Galen Rupp at 2018 Chicago Marathon with Pacers

By Adam Kopet

Bank of America Chicago Marathon organizers announced Thursday that Mo Farah will compete in the 2018 edition of the race in October.

Farah recently finished third in April's London Marathon in a British record 2:06:21. It was his second attempt at the distance, having made his debut at the 2014 London Marathon. In that race he ran an English record of 2:08:21.

The move to the marathon and the roads for Farah began after last year's IAAF World Outdoor Championships. He won the 10,0000 meters and finished second in the 5,000 meters. In all, Farah won four Olympic gold medals and six World Championship gold medals in the 5,000 and 10,000 meters.

Farah joins former training partner Galen Rupp, who has already been announced as part of the 2018 Chicago elite field. Rupp won the race in 2017 in a then personal best 2:09:20. He has since run 2:06:07 at the Prague Marathon.

Farah and Rupp first made history when they won gold and silver medals in the 2012 Olympic 10,000 meters. However, the last time the pair raced each other was the 10,000 meters at the 2016 Olympics in Rio. Farah won his third Olympic gold medal. Rupp finished fifth before going on to win bronze in the marathon. Farah went on to win the 5,000-meter gold.

The Chicago Marathon organizers also announced they will add pacers to this year's race after not using them in recent years. Adding pacing to the elite races will help athletes take advantage of the fast course.