To the Windy City

It's official! ITU is heading to the Windy City in 2014 and 2015. Next year, Chicago will host one of the eight World Triathlon Series races before organising the Grand Final in 2015.

After the Peace and Sport Conference in New York, I was able to join USA Triathlon and the Chicago Sports Commission to make the announcement at a press conference in Chicago. We had a great turnout for the event, followed by a youth triathlon demonstration, which was a highlight of the day for me. No matter how many races I attend, I never get tired of seeing the future of our sport light up when they swim, bike, and run.

When I visited Chicago years ago, I immediately thought it would serve as a great host for an ITU race. Its active community, strong sports culture, and festive environment are exactly the sorts of things we look for in a host city. The fact there are two fantastic airports for athletes to fly into is an added bonus.

We have also worked with USA Triathlon on a number of WTS events now, which was a strong factor in choosing Chicago as a host city. They have always done a great job putting on events that athletes love to compete in and spectators enjoy watching. Speaking of spectators, if the out pour of support we received after the announcement from the community is any indicator, these are going to be two very popular races!

Now the question is, do you have your post-race celebration at Gino's East or Giordano's...