Planning ahead for the Chicago Triathlon? Look no further. Our 2017 race guide has got you covered.
On Sunday, August 27, 2017, thousands of triathletes will swim, bike and run at the Transamerica Chicago Triathlon. Participants and spectators will experience the scenic Chicago waters, bike paths and city life, all during this one event.
Whether you’re participating or spectating, below you’ll find everything you need to know, including our recommendations for Chicago Triathlon parking.
Chicago Triathlon Schedule
Location: Monroe Harbor
Swim Start: 700 S. Lake Shore Drive
Transition Area: 600 E. Randolph St
4:00 a.m. Transition opens
5:45 a.m. Transition closes
6:00 a.m. International waves start
6:30 a.m. Transition re-opens (Sprint)
8:00 a.m. Trolley service starts
8:00 a.m. Post-race party opens
8:30 a.m. Transition closes (Sprint)
8:45 a.m. Sprint waves start
10:10 a.m. Last swimmer enters water
10:45 a.m. Last swimmer exits water
10:54 a.m. Last athlete enters bike course
11:00 a.m. Awards Ceremony
12:00 p.m. Last athlete exits bike course
12:05 p.m. Last athlete enters run course
1:45 p.m. Last athlete finishes
2:00 p.m. Post-race party closes
3:00 p.m. Trolley service ends
Chicago Triathlon Transporation
The triathlon offers a free trolley service at the northeast corner of Balbo and Columbus and the southwest corner of Lakeshore and Monroe anytime between 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
Chicago Triathlon Parking
Whether you’re a spectator or participant, the crowds will be out in full force. Plan ahead for a stress-free parking experience on Race Day.
Reserve your parking in advance with SpotHero and get an affordable rate for a spot that’s convenient for you. The map below highlights top rates near the start and finish:
Chicago Triathlon Course Map
The full Chicago Triathlon course map is below. You can find more info on the course distances and route here.
Chicago Triathlon Spectator Info
Swim
Viewing begins at Monroe Harbor starting just east of Balbo and Lake Shore Drive and ends southeast of Monroe and Lake Shore Drive by the swim exit.
Bike
Spectators can view participants north on Lake Shore Drive to Hollywood Beach and back. Spectators are not allowed on Lake Shore Drive. If your athlete is participating in the International distance, spectators can catch a unique view of the International bike course from a top of the 11th Street Pedestrian Bridge located between Michigan Ave. and Columbus Dr.
Run
Head out on the run course from just north of Monroe Street and Lake Shore Drive, following the intermediate Lake Front path south to 31st Street. At 31st Street, runners head north along the Lakefront path entering Grant Park just north of Museum Campus. A great place to catch runners is at the aid station at Mile 1 (just southeast of Lake Shore Drive and Balbo near the Field Museum).
Finish Line
The finish line is located along Columbus Drive in Chicago’s Grant Park. Enter the Finish Festival from Balbo and Columbus Drive and make your way to the spectator viewing area.
The Chicago Triathlon App
To track your participants, use the Transamerica Athlete Tracker during the race as they cross course checkpoints. It features an interactive map, live streams from official timing pads, estimated arrival times and even more. Check out the Chicago Triathlon app here.
Chicago Triathlon Road Closures
During the time of the race, be aware of what roads will be temporarily closed as they will be part of the various course points. Road closures can be viewed here.