Chicago Half Marathon returns to city's South Side

CHICAGO (WLS) -- More than 14,000 runners gathered in Jackson Park for the annual Chicago Half Marathon Sunday.

The race, now in its 19th year, draws runners from around the world - 48 states and 39 countries. The race takes them through the city's historic South Side, including Jackson Park, University of Chicago's campus and Lake Shore Drive.

Although 30 percent of the runners are not from Chicago, many residents wanted a chance to participate in this city tradition.

"I think it's more the motivation of trying a marathon - she convinced me to do it. And if my friend here can do it, then we can do it," said Melissa Battiato, a runner.

For some, the race is very personal.

"She fought all the way to the end, so we can fight and just show that she had a positive attitude all the way to the end," said Joanna Babyar, who is running for her late mother who lost a battle to cancer in April. "And it doesn't matter where you are in your life that you can keep going, keep moving forward no matter what you have against you. So that's why we're running for her today."

Both directions of Lake Shore Drive between Marquette and 31st were closed for the race but have since re-opened.