If you are serious about running, and serious about running a fast marathon, you should run Chicago. The first clause of that sentence rules out St. George, the second clause dictates a flat course with a good field and generally good marathon weather, and the third clause follows from the first two. Of course, you still need to put in weeks on end of serious training, and still then need some luck. But when it comes together, it is a great thing, and for Track Club LA, the 2012 Chicago Marathon was a great thing.