The annual Tri-For-A-Purpose triathlon hosted by Lotus Tree Wellness and Hearing was once again a success. Held on Sunday, July 16, there were a total of 36 triathlon runners out and 10 people taking part in the 5.5 km walk/run. Although a little bit windier than organizers would have liked, the day was one for the books as they came together to raise funds for STARS.
The triathlon typically sees swimmers make their way 500 metres from shore and then race around a buoy and back; but, this year the strong winds and white caps encouraged the organizers to make a change and bring the buoy in a ways; shortening the swim.
“The waves made me nervous, but we shortened the swim, so that made it a lot less intense,” Brittany Dalziel, organizer, explained. “It was a great day, nice to see people of all ages and abilities come out to support a great cause and brave the windy weather.”
Following the challenging swim – with lifeguards on hand to ensure safety – participants raced out of the water and up the hill to the bike stalls set up near the playground equipment and washroom. With a quick change, the transition went smoothly, as all were off in short time to complete the 12 km bike route which wound through the park, down Hwy 9, and back through the Village of Kenosee.
Participants were then off to complete the 5.5 km run out and around Beaver Lake Trail from the transition area.
This year proceeds from the event will be given to STARS Air Ambulance, which – in Saskatchewan – is an extremely important service that sees use across the province, especially in rural areas.
Top finishers this year included Leigh Rosengren in the female category with a time of 56:19.8 (the fastest of the day), Mark Ellsworth in the male category at 58:38.8, and in the team event with a time of 57:01.7 were Darcy Easton, Darren Swanson, and Danielle Steele.
