The Bank of America Shamrock Shuffle closed off registration on Monday after reaching its 30,000 runner capacity. The event, now in its 29th year, is the kickoff to the outdoor running season and is Sunday, March 30; it includes both an 8K run and a 5K fitness walk.

According to executive race director Carey Pinkowski, "more than 90% of our participants from the area," so it's a very local race.

If you are disappointed that you missed out on this one, you can always start training for the Chicago Marathon. Registration is still open for this year's event. Or Visit the Chicago Area Runner Association "Find a Race" page to find races of varying lengths throughout the year. The site also has information on training for races of all sizes.