Thousands Run, Bike And Swim Downtown For Chicago Triathlon
CHICAGO (CBS) -- The lakefront downtown this morning was awash in wetsuits and spandex as an estimated seven thousand athletes participated in the Chicago Triathlon.
First-timer Lauren Jaffe of Chicago was preparing for the likelihood that she'd get kicked in the head or hit during the swim before getting in chilly Lake Michigan with lots of other people.
Zach Kilpsch of Three Rivers, Michigan said riding his bike on Lower Wacker and the underground bus expressway to McCormick Place reminded him of the Batman movies.
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Brian Swanson of Wauconda estimates he's done about 50 triathlons. He says the worst part is waiting for your turn to start.
Many of the athletes we spoke to said the water was really cold but they appreciated that the air temperature wasn't that high so they didn't overheat.
Mayor Emanuel crossed the finish line and pose for some pictures with fellow athletes. Emanuel finished in 1 hour, 39 minutes and 59 seconds, which was 354th out of 2,015. To check the full triathlon results, click here.
Organizers say 9,000 people competed in five different courses today and yesterday combined as part of the city's 33rd annual triathlon.
45 percent are from Chicago and they ranged in age from 7 to 84 years old.
