Note from Publisher: This is an advertorial for an independent triathlon that is attempting to shake up the marketplace and support pro triathletes. Because they are compensating me and because I believe in what they’re trying to do, trstriathlon.com has agreed to offer our marketing and advertising support. Once you read this article, you’ll see why I’m excited to support them. By the way, this may be the first time in triathlon media history that a relationship like this was actually disclosed.
The 2015 Chinook Triathlon Festival will take plan in Sylvan Lake, Alberta on Aug 1, 2015. It relocated after a 10 year history in Lake Midnapore near Calgary, Alberta. Previous race director Mike Bock started the race as a way to support charitable organizations and athletes a decade ago, and it has since grown into a festival atmosphere that still holds true to its roots.
Pro Prize Purse
This year’s event has had some changes apart from its location as well. After seeing a huge decline in triathlon events that are wiling to pay their professional athletes, it was evident that Western Canada needed some help. This year the Chinook Triathlon will feature a $10,000 prize purse that will go to support athletes that choose to attend the event. The money is structured to be paid out to the top ten athletes that cross the line in a unique chase-style triathlon event.
Chase Style Event Pits Men Versus Women
Reminiscent of the Lifetime Fitness Triathlon event that took place in the United States for a number of years, the female athletes are given a head start of around 13 minutes before the men give “chase.” The dynamic is fun and exciting, and its very interesting to watch the strategies that play out. Both the men’s field and the women’s field may try to work together on pacing and strategy, but by the time the last 5 km on the run comes around- it turns into a all out battle of the sexes. This years race features some of North America’s top elite triathletes.
Multiple Options for Age Groupers
The age group racing is just as exciting to watch, and the new Sylvan lake waterfront may remind athletes of the Penticton area. The age group field still has room for entries and athletes are encouraged to be a part of this unique event that features a Olympic Distance, Aquabike (swim-bike with no run), ½ Iron Distance, and Team event. Athletes can still enter at the preferred rate till July 12th, after which there is a price increase of $10.
The Sylvan Lake area has been known to host some great events over the past number of years- and we want to take this amazing location and turn it into the next big destination race. The goal is to have a Wildflower-feeling race that has a $75,000 prize purse and 1000 age group athletes within a three year period. With camping, rental properties and hotels available- it is a natural fit for athletes on any budget. The very strong triathlon community of Red Deer is just minutes away- and athletes from Edmonton and Calgary can be at the race site on race morning within about 75 minutes.
Come be part of the next Independent triathlon that has the ability to defy the mainstream market. You can support pro athletes while enjoying a great race with awesome SWAG, a killer finisher medal and good food after the event.
To learn more visit the Chinook Triathlon festival website.
