The course was excellent! The swim in Lake Michigan was clearly marked, staffed very well, and felt very safe. Biking on Lake Shore Drive was a rush, and car traffic respected the bike lane. Other bike riders were not so courteous about dumping their water bottles on the pavement though, and I saw another rider wipe out and mangle his front tire as he slowed for the half way turnaround. The run was out around the Shedd Aquarium Building and very scenic along the lake with lots of room to pass other runners (or be passed). Food at the end of race party was just ok... Can't wait for this year(2005)!

Pros: HUGE race, great schwag at the expo, super fast bike course - its definitely thrilling to bike on lake shore drive... The race is run extremely smoothly for such a big race.

Cons: 1/4 mile run from swim exit to transition, congested bike course (inevitable though), could have used a few more portolets on the run...

You just have to do this race at least once. Its the biggest tri in the world and its fun to be a part of all the hype. It really is a great race for the athletes and the spectators.