The Chicago Triathlon 2025 unfolded on August 23-24, bringing together thousands of athletes from around the world to compete in one of the nation’s premier triathlon events. This year’s edition continued to solidify its reputation as the Best Sprint Triathlon in the USA, offering a wide array of race categories from kids and beginners to elite professionals, all set against the vibrant backdrop of downtown Chicago along the scenic shores of Lake Michigan.
The event kicked off on Saturday, August 23, with the Kids Junior and Senior divisions, SuperSprint, and the highly anticipated Triple Challenge, which was sold out well in advance. The race formats varied to accommodate participants of all experience levels—ranging from a 100m swim for the youngest athletes to the grueling 5.1-mile swim-bike-run Triple Challenge segment. Sunday’s schedule featured the Sprint and International distances, welcoming both individual athletes and relay teams eager to test their endurance and speed.
One of the most thrilling highlights was the Supertri Chicago event, a high-intensity short-course triathlon that took place the same weekend. The Supertri League brought in elite global competitors, including Olympic medalists and top-ranked triathletes. Alberto Gonzalez Garcia, a 27-year-old Spanish star, delivered a masterful and dominant performance, seizing victory with commanding leads in all nine stages of the competition. His remarkable achievement marked Podium Racing’s first win of the 2025 season, edging out strong contenders like Tyler Mislawchuk and John Reed in a race that captured the attention of triathlon fans worldwide.
The Chicago Triathlon courses are known for their dynamic urban setting and challenging terrain. The swim segments begun in Lake Michigan, offering crystal-clear waters and spectacular city views. Cyclists enjoyed routes along Lake Shore Drive, with the run courses finishing in the iconic Grant Park, adding a festive atmosphere filled with cheering spectators. The event organizers ensured accessibility and safety with precise wave starts, efficient transitions, and support for paratriathletes and adaptive racers, reflecting the event’s inclusive spirit.
Beyond the competition, this year’s triathlon featured a bustling expo at the Hilton Chicago on South Michigan Avenue, where participants and visitors could explore the latest in triathlon gear, nutrition, and wellness products. The expo also served as a gathering spot for networking with coaches, trainers, and community members passionate about the sport.
Key Stats and Race Highlights:
- Event Dates: August 23-24, 2025
- Location: Chicago, Illinois, centered around Monroe Harbor and Grant Park
- Race Categories: Kids Jr. and Sr., SuperSprint, Sprint, International, and Triple Challenge (sold out)
- Elite Winner (Supertri): Alberto Gonzalez Garcia with a commanding lead
- Average Finish Times: SuperSprint ~59 minutes, Sprint ~2 hours 8 minutes, International ~3 hours 15 minutes
- Participants: Thousands, including age-groupers, amateurs, seasoned pros, and para-athletes
The Chicago Triathlon 2025 maintained its tradition of community involvement and athlete celebration with medals, event T-shirts, post-race food, and a lively atmosphere that made it a memorable experience for all. The event also emphasized environmental consciousness with eco-friendly practices to preserve the beautiful lakefront and surrounding neighborhoods.
As the sun set on the weekend, the city buzzed with stories of personal triumphs, new friendships, and the collective spirit of competition. Whether first-timers conquering their initial triathlon or elite athletes setting new standards, the 2025 Chicago Triathlon proved once again why it remains a must-attend event on the triathlon calendar.
If you experienced the race or have thoughts about the Chicago Triathlon 2025, share your story or follow the next updates to stay connected with this vibrant community of endurance athletes.