This race is a great starter race for a triathlon distance. This year the sign up was much later than anticipated due to trying to obtain permits (or so I heard from race staff). The swag in the past has been fantastic with bike tank jerseys and possible skirts (for early registration). This year it was cotton tanks and tech tanks from last year's 5k/10k Chicago race. I wish the swag was like previous years. I am confident that the swag and race registration for next year will be better as the race was already open for early registration. The one nice option for this race is relay. If you are not a swimmer, biker or runner you can find someone that is and form an awesome team.

The expo is nice but not large and is held outdoors at the Naperville Settlement which is fun to stroll through. Dave Kappas does an excellent job as a race announcer. He keeps everyone calm as there are many first time athletes at this event. He is able to get the information you need to know in a timely fashion.

Race day parking is easy and free. To score the best lots you have to arrive early (5:30ish) but there are still open spots up until closing of the transition area. The volunteers and race staff do an excellent job of answering any questions and making sure you know where to go.

The swim is in the quarry and varies from the August triathlon with a longer distance and more down and back turns. The past two years the cancer survivors and relay teams go first followed by youngest to oldest age groups. Fearful of the swim? There are swim angels if you want extra support along the way. You can swim any stroke and even use the lanes (if you really need to rest). Snorkels are also approved for use during the swim. The shallow portions of the swim turns most people stand and run until they cannot touch again. This is one of the most swim friendly triathlons if you are fearful of this portion.

The bike seems like it would be easy but every year that I have done the bike it seems like there are small hills that feel giant and wind, lots of wind. You do the loop twice and many families come out to cheer. Doing the loop you can also see friends or the top athletes going by. There are groups that can assist you if something happens to your bike during the race. This year it was Livegrit. You do need to have at least one tube with you if you were to get a flat so they can help you out.

The run is partially through the river walk shaded and beautiful. The other portion is around homes with families out to cheer or provide sprinklers to help cool you off. Race Guards are also present along the course in case you need medial assist which could be as simple as help with chafing, fuel or a muscle cramp.

The after party is a highlight with great food, free samples, music and free race pictures. The medals are nice with a charm you could put onto a necklace or key-chain if you wanted.
Overall I plan on doing this race again next year and anticipate it will be even better than this year.