If you’ve ever considered trying a triathlon, I recommend giving the Blue Lake Triathlon a try! (Read Amy Little’s preview here.) Mail-in and online registration is still open, but prices will increase by $5 on May 24th, then by another $10 if you wait until packet-pickup or the day of race.
Last year I participated in the “My First Tri” event (which I recapped for RunOregon here), which caters to first time triathletes, and this year I am back for the sprint distance. The “My First Tri” event is almost the same as the sprint, except the swim is only 1/4 mile instead of 1/2 a mile, then continues with the same 12 mile bike and 3.1 mile run. Additionally, the “My First Tri” participants have their own start wave for the swim, and all their bikes are parked in the same corral where helpful volunteers are available for to ask questions and get advice.
Since this is my second triathlon in open water, I will be swimming the 1/2 mile course for the sprint distance. Unlike last year, I have actually been spending some time in the pool and feel more prepared. I also overhauled my bike, which should make the middle portion easier as well. Overall I’m looking forward to the atmosphere of a multi-sport event, which is just a little different than a running event.
Blue Lake Sprint Triathlon details:
When: Saturday, June 7th, 2014; 8am start in waves
Where: Blue Lake, Fairview, OR
What: Sprint and “My First Tri” triathlon, Sprint Duathlon
Registration: online or mail-in
Registration cost for sprint/my first tri: $90/$60 (until May 23); $95/$65 (May 24 – June 6); $110/$75 (Packet pickup/DOR)
Registration includes: chip timed race, event shirt, finishers medal, post-race refreshments and entertainment
