The 2021 Chicago Triathlon First-Timers’ Program will open in Spring 2021

The Chicago Triathlon First-Timers’ Program is a special athlete development program designed to alleviate traditional intimidation, build athletic confidence and provide a calm racing environment for aspiring triathletes. The program launched in 2014, reaching sell-out capacity every season and achieving a near-perfect finisher rate.

The program is limited to only 150 Sprint and 150 International distance registrants. First Timers’ Program participants receive a myriad of educational opportunities and virtual and in-person training sessions included with their race registration fee. Participants also receive special race weekend services including dedicated Transition staff and separate wave starts.

Those officially-enrolled in the program receive the following perks:

Educational Sessions

The program includes six stand-alone, in-person or video, educational sessions — each focusing on a variety of tri-specific topics (swim, bike, run, transition, gear, etc).

All sessions will be held either via video or in-person once it is safe to do so, with exact in-person locations released within private email. The educational sessions will feature a handful of retail partners and sponsors, offering exclusive swag and promotions for program participants.

In-person/video educational series tentative dates and topics: 

    • May 5: Swim
    • May 26: Bike
    • June 16: Run
    • July 7: Transition
    • July 28: Mental preparation
    • August 18: Race preparation

Training

  • A written training program
  • Priority access into the Chicago Triathlon Swim Clinic Series (June-August)
  • Live coaching support during educational sessions
  • Various social runs and happy hours once it is deemed safe per local authorities
  • Private Facebook Group for ongoing support and guidance.

Race Weekend

  • Private, Pre-Race Athlete Briefing
  • Dedicated race weekend Transition support
  • Private Transition racks
  • Private swim start

To ensure placement in the First-Timers’ Program, participants must register themselves for individual Sprint or International entry at www.chicagotriathlon.com. On the “Select Your Division,” question, choose the “First-Timers’ Program” option from the menu. Note: The 2021 First Timers’ Program will open when race registration opens in April 2021. 

Questions? Email us at chicagotri@ltevents.zendesk.com

Requirements

The First Timers’ Program is available first-come, first-serve to ONLY those who will complete their first-ever outdoor triathlon on Sunday, August 29, 2021. Participants must register specifically for this program. Unqualified individuals will be defaulted to their standard Age Group division.

Note: Due to the special race weekend amenities, program participants are not eligible for Age Group Awards.

How To Enroll

Registration for the 2021 program will open when race registration opens in April 2021.