Marathon director stands by his decision to cut race short

Five days after the warmest Chicago Marathon in history, the race's director defended his decision to end the run early amid brutal heat and humidity that sent scores to hospitals.

In a letter posted on the marathon's Web site Friday, executive race director Carey Pinkowski said his call was "the single most difficult decision I have ever made as race director.

"While that was a frustration to many, I stand behind the decision to end the race early -- it was a necessary safety measure," the letter said.

Organizers ended the 30th annual race about 3½ hours after its start because of fears of heat exhaustion. A 35-year-old Michigan man who had a heart disorder died; the Cook County medical examiner's office ruled he did not die from the heat.

The day's results left Pinkowski's staff "disappointed as well," and organizers planned to review details and feedback as they consider future races, the letter said.

"Rest assured that we take the day's events -- and your comments -- seriously," he said.

The letter did not specifically address widespread criticism that organizers didn't provide enough water or Gatorade to keep runners hydrated as temperatures soared into the 80s.

In the days after the race, organizers insisted they had adjusted their plans for the heat and boosted the number of drink servings at the race's 15 aid stations to 1.8 million from 1.6 million, as well as adding misting areas, extra ice and water-soaked sponges for the 35,000 runners.