Out of all the races that Chicagoans compete in, the Shamrock Shuffle is one of the most popular. (Could it be the beer that awaits at the finish line?) On March 29th there's an 8K run through downtown and a 5K Fitness Walk along the lakeshore and Museum Campus.

Registration is limited to 32,500 and this event sells out every year. Since it's the 30th anniversary it's bound to fill up even faster, so sign up quickly.

Chicago Blackhawks top scorer Patrick Kane headed to the locker room with a knee injury during the first period of Tuesday night’s loss to the Detroit Red Wings, but returned to action in the second. January 1, the Blackhawks’ franchise (and perfectly healthy) player will, along with his teammates, host the Detroit Red Wings at Wrigley Field, in NHL Winter Classic 2009. (noon on NBC) Earlier this week, “Kaner” answered questions about the outdoor battle with the Wings on conference call.

As the countdown to the NHL Winter Classic 2009 continues, Mayor Richard M. Daley, joined by Blackhawks Chairman Rocky Wirtz, Blackhawks President John McDonough, and Cubs Chairman Crane Kenney came to subzero Wrigley Field on Monday for a special press event in advance of the much-anticipated outdoor regular-season NHL game on New Year’s Day.

You might have seen that statement on a billboard around town. That's the slogan for this (meaning next) year's fitness center promotion from the Chicago Park District. Each year they open up their 60 fitness centers for free. From January 2 - 16 you can work on being both physically and fiscally healthy. If you choose to sign up for a membership you'll also get a free Nike bag (while supplies last). Memberships range from $40 - $75 for a three-month period.