Endurance News has reported the following:
According to event organiser Supertri, the 42nd annual Chicago Triathlon By Supertri… ‘reached historic heights this past weekend, with more than 8,000 participants across two days of racing, solidifying the event as one of the largest and most inclusive triathlons in the world and the biggest in North America.’
Ranking as the largest triathlon in the USA, and one of the world’s largest, the event saw 7,000 finishers across a range of short course racing distances, with Supertri citing… ‘Record-breaking numbers, increased fundraising, and a third of all participants being first-timers, the event continues to establish itself as one of the fastest-growing triathlons in the world.’
The Kids Triathlon was popular, while first-time triathletes and those seeking a shorter race distance competed in the Supersprint race.
Saturday afternoon featured the professional Supertri League, where some of the best triathletes in the world competed in fast-paced, team-based short-course races.
Sunday’s Sprint and Olympic distance races drew thousands of participants along the scenic course from Lake Michigan through downtown to Grant Park. Athletes throughout the weekend represented 45 US states and 32 countries, ranging in age from 6 to 88, helping Supertri to highlight… ‘the international reach and multigenerational inclusivity of the Chicago Triathlon By Supertri.’
Supertri notes that one-third of this year’s event participants were first-time triathletes, underscoring a commitment to making the sport more accessible. Supertri adds that it aims to break down the barriers to entry by offering… ‘a free first-timers program, relay races where you can swim, bike or run, and the Divvy wave where racers can use a city bike to complete the course.’
Now in its second year, the Corporate Challenge also saw strong growth, tripling the number of participating companies and raising more than US$85,000 for Ann & Robert H Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago. The Corporate Challenge continues to connect the business community with the sport while creating meaningful impact for paediatric cancer and blood disorder research.
Supertri CEO and Co-Founder Michael D’hulst, who himself competed in the Olympic-distance race on Sunday, said “Chicago is one of my favorite courses in the world, it truly captures what triathlon can be.
“The energy and passion of the community made this our biggest and most exciting event to date. This year we saw record-breaking numbers, but more importantly, we saw how the sport is evolving to be more inclusive. It’s amazing to see the community we’re building around Supertri and we encourage people to join the fun and sign up to race next year.”
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