American wins Chicago Marathon; first time since 2002

CHICAGO (Fox 32 News) - The Chicago Marathon wrapped up for the 40th time Sunday. This year’s marathon was a return of sorts for the male finisher as three-time Olympian Galen Rupp, whose father grew up in suburban Maywood, became the first American champion since 2002.

On the women's side, American Jordan Hasay recorded the second fastest time ever by a woman.

The marathon came about a week after a man in Las Vegas killed 58 people while perched above a music festival, bringing an increased police presence to Chicago.

But all of it came together to make a memorable experience for those running, and those cheering, as well.

“I know we're supposed to be racing but you can't help but have moments where you're looking around and you're just taking it all in,” said Damara Nickerson, who traveled from Canada to participate in the marathon.

Bob Sutton watched his wife finish the race.

“I'm not a runner myself, so I get a lot of strength from watching her accomplish what she sets as a goal each and every year,” Sutton said.

The official count is that  a record of 43,000 people participated in this year’s marathon.