ITU Chicago - Triathlon

The race director needs to do a bit of work on the design of the course. The out lane wasn't separated enough from the return. I saw many, many collisions in waves prior to my own. Even with this knowledge and make sure I was well clear of the buoys on my swim I had some near encounters of my own. While they did a great job of spacing the waves to help with the bike course, the swim course needs work.

I didn't need my full suit... sleeveless would have been fine and I'd have had a much better swim.

I can't seem to get my full suit off fast no matter how I try. I also don't run well with it on and it was a long run from the exit to tranistion.

The course was not as congested as I thought it would be. The swim wave managment was very well done. The drop into Wacker was unnerving as you lost your sight for a few seconds. There were also quite a few road hazords to navigate. All that said I enjoyed the course more than I thought I would. I even managed to stay on my bike after hitting a loose water bottle.

The run from dismount to my rack spot was super long. I should have stopped and taken my shoes off given how long I had to run.

I wasn't a fan of the loops.By the time I got to my run it was crazy humid so I wasn't loving the experience. I'm happy I kept myself running the entire time however. In that kind of heat and humidity I usually crash.

lots of walking to get my gear bag and then back to Transition to get my bike.


Not do a 4 hour bike ride the day prior.


For a first time race it was ok. They need to work on some organization and directions/communication. Many of the volunteers gave incorrect instructions. Body marking was a compete mess and I felt for the packet pick-up people on Sat. as the line was crazy. Gear pickup and drop off needed better logistics as well. I think there were only 3 people working it when I picked up. Way too much volume for so few people.