Bears Open Training Camp

By Benjy Lipsman in News on Jul 25, 2005 7:15PM

Chicagoist spent Sunday sweltering in the 100 degree heat at U.S. Cellular Field. Meanwhile, most of the Chicago Bears spent the day sweating on the practice field for the first time, as Sunday marked the opening of the Bears' Training Camp. Held once again at Olivet Nazarene University in Bourbonnais, Illinois, the Bears will be training until August 17, trying to get into shape for the 2005 season.

As in past years, fans are invited to come watch Bears camp. One of the most fan friendly caps in the NFL, the Bears are one of the few teams who do not charge admission for fans to watch. The daily schedule shows which days and times the team practice. For those wishing to attend, here are directions down to Bourbonnais as well as lodging and restuarant info. Maybe if you're lucky, you'll catch some of the Bears breaking curfew for a late night run to Taco Bell.

While most of the Bears showed up rested, healed and ready to get to work 1st round draft pick Cedric Benson was absent and may be for a while as the Bears and Benson's agent, Eugene Parker, are at a standstill. Meanwhile, 4th round pick Kyle Orton made it into camp late yesterday -- after spending the day reading The Count of Monte Cristo in his car while waiting on his agent's call that a deal was reached. No word yet on when Lovie Smith wants the book report turned in.

Photo via Yahoo!News