HydraPak is proud to partner with the Bank of America Chicago Distance Series to help bring a more sustainable, runner-friendly hydration experience to the Bank of America Chicago 13.1 and the Bank of America Chicago Marathon.
As part of the initiative, runners at both events will have access to the new on-course Culligan Water Refill Stations designed to support personal hydration systems during the race. The effort represents a major step forward for sustainability in endurance sports and positions the Bank of America Chicago Marathon as the first Abbott World Marathon Major to formally support personal hydration refills on course.
Supporting the Future of Race-Day Hydration
Personal hydration systems are increasingly common among marathoners and half marathoners, helping athletes stay comfortable, reduce waste and hydrate on their own terms. As an official vendor partner of the Bank of America Chicago 13.1 and Back of America Chicago Marathon, HydraPak is helping elevate the “carry your own” hydration message. Our hope is that an increasing number of road race participants recognize the benefits of running with their own hydration. Additionally, race directors and event organizers recognize that the transition toward more sustainable racing experiences is achievable.
“Sustainability has been a core focus of ours for more than a decade, and the introduction of the Culligan Water Refill Stations on-course represents an important next step,” said Carey Pinkowski, Executive Race Director, Bank of America Chicago Distance Series.
The new refill stations, powered by Culligan’s filtered water systems, will allow participants to refill bottles, flasks, and handheld hydration products directly on course. At the Chicago 13.1, refill stations will be available at Mile 4.1 and Mile 9.7. Four refill stations will also be introduced at the Chicago Marathon course. Details to come.
Designed for Runners, Built for Sustainability
HydraPak has spent more than 20 years creating hydration solutions trusted by athletes around the world. From SoftFlasks and handheld bottles to reservoirs, we’ve continually focused on helping runners move more efficiently and comfortably through every mile.
Now, HydraPak is helping shape what sustainable hydration can look like at some of the world’s most recognized endurance events.
This partnership supports a growing movement across the running industry to reduce reliance on single-use plastic and disposable cups while improving the athlete experience. By encouraging runners to carry refillable hydration systems, the initiative aims to make race-day operations more environmentally responsible without sacrificing convenience or performance.
Want to learn more? Listen to our interview on the Marathon Running Podcast by the Marathon Journal.
Innovation Through Partnership
Together, Culligan, the Bank of America Chicago Distance Series and HydraPak aim to build a reliable model for sustainable hydration at large-scale running events, supported by runner education and prerace resources.
As more runners embrace personal hydration systems, partnerships like this one are helping races evolve to meet the moment and setting a new standard for endurance events worldwide.
