Participating in a large triathlon is exhilarating, and the trend is becoming more common. As the sport continues to gain attention and draw new competitors, races across the country are expanding. Furthermore, although the Olympic distance is most popular, sprint triathlons are growing as well because they cater to specialized groups and first-time racers inspired to race for a cause.
Chicago Fleet Feet SuperSprint
With an average of 10,000 racers each year, the Accenture Chicago Triathlon, an Olympic distance event, is the world's largest triathlon. However, the corresponding Fleet Feet SuperSprint is gaining popularity, as well. Starting at Foster Beach, around 1,200 athletes swim 375 m, bike 10 k and run 2.5 k to compete in this sprint distance triathlon. The race benefits the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society.
Tri for the Cure
The Tri for the Cure is also a popular sprint triathlon. This event benefits the Susan G. Koman Foundation's fight to find a cure for breast cancer. Although events are offered in several major cities, the Phoenix race commonly draws the most interest with around 1,200 participants. The race starts with a 400 m pool swim, continues with an 8-mile bike ride and concludes with a 2.25-mile run.
Ramblin' Rose Women's Triathlon
The Ramblin' Rose Women's Triathlon has been featured in several cities throughout the Southeast. However, with about 1,200 annual athletes, the Charlotte, North Carolina, event is the most popular. As Steve Lackey, founder of the Ramblin' Rose explains, "The requests we've received from women across the country to bring Ramblin' Rose to their community have been overwhelming."
South Shore Tri
Although it is sometimes considered Chicago's "Other Tri," Chicago's South Shore Tri is also one of the largest sprint triathlons in the United States. With about 1,000 annual triathletes, the event is only slightly smaller than the Fleet Feet SuperSprint. However, because it does not include an Olympic option, it feels petite when compared to the gigantic Accenture event. Competitors swim 750 m, bike 20 k and run 5 k.
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