The Chicago Triathlon 2025 has officially taken over the city this weekend, filling the lakefront with thousands of athletes, fans, and families. Known as one of the largest urban triathlons in the world, this year’s event has already delivered thrilling performances, inspiring stories, and a vibrant celebration of endurance sports.
The action began on Saturday, August 23, with youth competitions that brought nearly 700 children to Foster Beach. Kids between the ages of 7 and 14 tackled swimming, biking, and running courses designed to introduce them to the world of triathlon. The atmosphere was filled with excitement as first-time participants crossed the finish line with beaming smiles and seasoned young athletes pushed their limits to new heights.
Saturday also featured the Supersprint and the Triple Challenge, which drew ambitious competitors looking to test their stamina across multiple formats. The Supersprint gave athletes a fast and intense race, while the Triple Challenge offered a grueling test across the weekend for those chasing ultimate bragging rights.
Elite Races Deliver Fireworks
The elite competitions brought world-class talent to the Chicago shoreline. In the men’s race, Spain’s Alberto Gonzalez Garcia surged ahead of the pack with a commanding victory, holding off Olympic veterans and rising stars. His performance was one of the most dominant of the weekend, combining sharp tactics and relentless pacing across all stages.
On the women’s side, Luxembourg’s Jeanne Lehair claimed her third career Supertri title in Chicago. She delivered a powerful run to outpace her closest rivals, including Olympic medalist Georgia Taylor-Brown, in what became one of the most exciting head-to-head battles of the event.
Both races highlighted the global appeal of the triathlon, with international athletes using Chicago as a proving ground before the final stretch of the 2025 racing season.
A Weekend for Everyone
The Chicago Triathlon 2025 is more than just elite competition. The weekend schedule is designed to welcome all levels of athletes. From young first-timers to experienced professionals, the variety of events ensures that everyone has a chance to compete.
Key weekend highlights include:
- Kids Triathlon: Hundreds of children racing in age-appropriate divisions.
- Supersprint: A quick, intense format for those new to the sport.
- Triple Challenge: A multi-race test of endurance across the weekend.
- Sprint and International Distances: The classic triathlon experiences through downtown Chicago.
On Sunday, August 24, the excitement shifts downtown for the Sprint and International distance races. With start times in the early morning, athletes will dive into Monroe Harbor before biking along Lake Shore Drive and finishing with a scenic run into Grant Park. More than 5,000 participants are expected for Sunday’s events alone, creating one of the largest triathlon gatherings in the country.
Chicago Shines as the Host
The backdrop of Lake Michigan, the city skyline, and iconic streets like Lower Wacker and Columbus Drive make this triathlon one of the most unique in the world. Athletes not only compete but also get a chance to experience Chicago’s landmarks in a way few ever do—by racing through them.
For spectators, the weekend is just as rewarding. Families cheer at the swim start, fans line the bike course, and finish-line energy builds into a festival atmosphere with live entertainment, food, and athlete celebrations.
Looking Ahead
The Chicago Triathlon 2025 continues to prove why it remains a crown jewel on the endurance sports calendar. With its blend of grassroots participation, youth inspiration, and elite-level drama, the event captures the very spirit of triathlon.
As the final races wrap up, Chicago will once again leave its mark on competitors who came from around the globe to test their endurance against the city’s iconic course. The only question left is—who will return next year to chase even bigger goals?