Chicago Triathlon: Road closures in effect as hundreds compete in big race at Foster Beach on Sunday

CHICAGO (WLS) — More than 8,500 athletes from more than 45 states and countries gathered in Chicago on Sunday for the 41st Chicago Triathlon.

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The athletes are put to the test physically and mentally during swimming, cycling and then running.

The course begins on Lake Michigan near Monroe Harbor before the athletes conquer the streets of the city.

The triathlon is also an entrepreneurial challenge: the aim is to raise over $50,000 for pediatric cancer and blood disease research at Lurie Children’s Hospital.

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According to organizers, Olympic champions Alex Yee and Cassandre Beuagrand are among the 11 Olympians taking part in the race.

The longer race of the international series started at 6 a.m., while the shorter super sprint series was scheduled to start at 8 a.m.

Full list of closures in effect on Sunday:

-Columbus from Balbo to Roosevelt until Sunday at 7 p.m.

-Randolph exit from Lake Shore Drive northbound until Sunday at 5:00 p.m.

-Columbus from Randolph to Lower Wacker from 6:30 a.m. to 11:45 p.m.

-DuSable Lake Shore Drive Southbound Lanes from Randolph to Hollywood from 5 a.m. to 12 p.m.

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