What does water, tires, and pavement have in common? All three will collide on Aug. 18 with the first annual Built 4 Life Triathlon being held.
Jenna Jensen, owner of Built 4 Life Health and Fitness, is excited about the opportunity for the community as she feels Moose Mountain Provincial Park is an ideal location for the event offering all the necessities for the triathlon, but with the added bonus of a beautiful view.
"There hasn't really been one in the area, there have been marathons, but this combines all the elements of fitness which here at Built 4 Life we definitely believe in," Jensen explained.
The triathlon will take competitors straight out into Kenosee Lake from the Main Beach around a pontoon boat and back totalling 500 metres. Jumping on their bikes competitors then take off for a 12 kilometre ride through the village back to Allison's parking lot. They will then be off to Beaver Lake Trail for the final five kilometres of the route finishing back at the parking lot to cross the finish line.
A unique feature of the triathlon is the ability to enter as a relay team. With the day's focus on being active and having fun, people are able to enter in teams of three with each person completing one segment of the race.
"For those that hate swimming or hate to run, the relay style breaks it up and provides that team spirit. The idea is to just go out there, have fun, and to get as many as in as possible who would like to participate."
So far there has been great interest and Jensen is hoping to have around 40 people register. The competition is open to anyone 15-years or older and will be open for entries until Aug. 16, however, registration before July 22nd allows participants to reserve a triathlon t-shirt as well.
"It's the first year, so I'm not expecting it to be too big, but we're making it an annual event and next year or the year after we're hoping to gain more interest and attract more people."
Jensen has had a good response from the community already through interest in volunteering at the event and has already begun to sign up participants.
"I'm hoping 20 [volunteers], at least that but if people are interested just give me a call at the gym and they can participate too or if they just want to be involved, we can find something for them to do."
Whether participating, volunteering, or simply interested in showing support people are encouraged to come out for the day to cheer on the participants.
"We're hoping to have a crowd at the finish line to cheer people on."
On the day of the triathlon registration will begin at 8 a.m., with the action starting at 9 a.m.
Lunch and awards will follow the competition, with a free lunch for all participants. For participants this is included in their $40 entry fee for individuals or $90 entry fee for teams.
For more information on how to become involved or obtain a registration form contact Jensen at the gym, (306)453-2313, or through email, j2fitness@hotmail.com.
