41st Chicago Triathlon: More than 8,500 athletes compete in race from Monroe Harbor to Grant Park

CHICAGO (WLS) -- At the crack of dawn Sunday, some of the world's most elite athletes plunged into Lake Michigan, marking the start of the 41st Chicago Triathlon.

"The Chicago Triathlon is now the biggest event in North America. I believe the second biggest event in the world. It has a long history, over 40 years," said Supertri Co-founder and CEO Michael Dhulst.

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More than 8,500 athletes from across the country and around the world converged on Chicago this weekend for the annual endurance event.

Olympic Champions Alex Yee and Cassandre Beuagrand were among the 11 Olympians attending the race, according to organizers.

The event consisted of a swim starting in Monroe Harbor followed by a high-speed bike ride through the scenic streets of Chicago before capping off with a run ending in Grant Park.

Orland Park's Steven Hinger was cheering on his 15-year-old son, Gunner, who has been competing in triathlons since he was just 6 years old.

"It's taught him how to handle tough times and push through and endure. It's really given him a leg up in life, I think," the proud father said.

The high schooler was among the first to finish, crossing the finish line with adults.

"I just love the energy here. It's such a good race. There's a lot of positivity," the teen said. "It's a lot of training. You can't skip any days and it's really, really fun."

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Chicago's Hope Hoffman was the first woman to cross the finish line Sunday.

She said there is nothing quite like racing through the Windy City on a perfect summer day.

"This has been a really fun course. Being on Lower Wacker was absolutely insane. I don't recommend riding a bike down there, but it was really fun," Hoffman said.

Indianapolis' Tim Zange was among the first men to finish the Triathlon Sunday.

He has advice to impart on those wanting to take the plunge, lace up and clip in for triathlons.

"Whatever makes you feel happy. I woke up this morning a little stressed and then after a little while I was like, 'You know what? I am doing this for fun. I am an amateur. This is just for fun,'" Zange said.

Hours and hours of training paid off in the heart of the Windy City.

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Streets that were closed Sunday due to the race have since been reopened.