2005 REIGNING CHAMPION FELIX LIMO WITHDRAWS FROM LASALLE BANK CHICAGO MARATHON CHICAGO (October 11, 2006) – The 2005 LaSalle Bank Chicago Marathon champion Felix Limo (KEN) has withdrawn from this year’s race. Citing lower back pain, the winner of the 2006 Flora London Marathon and current co-leader on the World Marathon Majors leader board, informed race organizers today that he will be unable to compete on October 22. “While this is a disappointment for us and for Felix that he will be unable to defend his crown, we undoubtedly support what was obviously a difficult decision for him,” remarked Executive Race Director Carey Pinkowski. “Felix is a great champion and I am confident that he will recover and be back stronger than ever. He is always welcome here and we will make every effort to bring him back to Chicago in 2007.” Limo earned The 2005 LaSalle Bank Chicago Marathon title in 2:07:02 and was considered an early favorite in this year’s Race. Earlier this spring he won a second consecutive title and 25 World Marathon Majors points in London with a 2:06:39 finish.