Schoodoodle School Supplies Blog

Chicago School Supply associates recently competed in the Fleet Feet Super Sprint Triathlon to support the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society.

The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society is the Official Charity of the Chicago Triathlon. Founded in 1949, the Society is the largest national volunteer health agency dedicated to curing Leukemia, Lymphoma, Hodgkin’s disease and myeloma.

If you’re into speed or new to triathlon, The Fleet Feet Sports SuperSprint Triathlon is made to order featuring:

•a 375 meter (.25 mile) swim in Lake Michigan parallel to the beach
•a 10 kilometer (6.2 mile) bike
•a 2.5 kilometer (1.55 mile) run

These sprint distances do not require the grueling training sessions that many Olympic and International distance triathletes must endure. The Super Sprint distance requires consistent training, but at intensity levels that many weekend warriors can achieve.

The swim was by far the most fun, challenging, and exciting portion of the race! Swimming in open water is extremely different from grinding out laps in a pool.

The first challenge is the cold water temperature. Lake Michigan was a chilly 65 degrees at race time. With the outside air temperature at an abnormal 60 degrees, it was very easy to justify the price of the Zoot Dry Suit!

Second is the lack of visibility. Swimming in a pool allows for clear vision and easy navigation. Not so in the murky waters of Lake Michigan. Visibility is about two feet…

Finally is the strength required to overcome Mother Nature. The waves can be difficult to navigate for even the most seasoned swimmer. Thankfully, the lake was relatively calm and made for a quick swim.

Chicago School Supply Founder and President Michael Ockrim did not have the quickest time in the field (he placed 200/700 competitors), but he was extremely pleased that he won his heat for the swim portion of the race. All of those hours spent swimming in the lake paid off!

The triathalon was a great experience that not only tests one’s mettle, but is also a fun and challenging way to give back to those in need. The funds raised for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society will be put to good use and provide resources for those in need.

See everyone on the course next year!