About America's Race
Hosted each June in Northwest Indiana, just 20 minutes from downtown Chicago, Leon’s is recognized as a beginner-friendly triathlon with a flat, fast, and traffic-free course—making it an ideal race for first-time triathletes as well as experienced competitors.
With a long-standing legacy in the sport, Leon’s pioneered the first National Amateur Championship, which continues today under USA Triathlon. In 1996, Leon’s also hosted one of the first Military Championships in the sport, both of which were televised on ESPN worldwide.
Leon Wolek with his mom, Julie.
About Leon’s Triathlon
We are committed to maintaining the high standards you expect while keeping registration affordable for all. Start your season with America’s Race—Leon’s Triathlon, a premier Chicagoland triathlon just 30 minutes from downtown Chicago.
Hosted in Northwest Indiana, this beginner-friendly triathlon features a calm swim in Wolf Lake (~69°F), a flat and fast bike course on a memorial highway, and a scenic run lined with over 1,000 American flags. Known for its welcoming atmosphere and inspiring military presence, it is the perfect race for first-time triathletes and experienced athletes alike.
Kick off your season here and continue your journey with the iconic Chicago Triathlon.
Swim
The Swim Course is held in Hammond’s Wolf Lake, allowing athletes to compete in open water without worrying about any possible waves or currents.
Bike
The Bike Course is a newly paved traffic free bike course on a gold star memorial highway, giving athletes the chance to focus on fast bike splits.
Run
And, we save the best for last with a super flat and breathtaking Run Course around beautiful Wolf Lake.
Canines
Race with your dog. For those interested, we have added a canine version of the race to our events.
2021 Obstacle Course Race
While growing up Leon didn’t have Superman or Batman as a hero, it was his father and military buddies at the American Legion Post 454 in New Chicago, IN whom inspired him. Leon’s Heroes are the men and women who put their lives on the line to defend our nation and constitution. We aim to create a feel of patriotism anywhere we go.
10 Things to Know About America’s Race
- The Chicago Skyway gets one from downtown Chicago in under 30 minutes to complimentary parking courtesy of the event.
- The tradition of old school work ethics and patriotism woven into every fabric of the event celebrating the 40th anniversary.
- Truly one of the very few para friendly triathlons in America with a significant number of our heroes.
- A great experience for Chicagoland triathlon enthusiasts.
- Fee includes American made, union printed, military grade event apparel.
- Volunteers available before, during, and after event to assist.
- Opening ceremonies include the Chicago Police, other military organizations, and law enforcement agencies including one of the largest American flags being held by patriots from the public and organizations showing unity of America.
- Conveniently located to nearby Gary/Chicago International Airport and Chicago’s Midway Airport.
- The production staff, that produced coverage for NBC Sports Chicago, got it right when they said they earned the title AMERICA’S RACE.
- We are humbled and honored to work with our long time friends at the North America building trades and Helmets to Hardhats launching the Industrial Athletes Championship.
Join the Race or Volunteer
Be part of Leon’s Triathlon and experience the thrill of America’s Race! Whether you’re competing or cheering from the sidelines, your presence makes a difference. Register today to secure your spot or sign up to volunteer and support our athletes.
