The sport of triathlon is growing bigger all the time and according to race director Geoff Goodman, this year’s Summerland Sprint Triathlon should be bigger and better than ever.

This year’s race, to be held on Sunday, Sept. 6, will be the ninth incarnation of the popular event which closes the season out for many of local participants.  

The event has attracted a wide variety of athletes and has continued to grow over the years. “We started off as a small event to do a little fundraising for the Orca Swim Club and people just keep coming back because they have a good time” said Goodman.

“This is a fantastic race for triathletes of any level. We have the Kids of Steel race for kids from five to 15, and we have the Sprint triathlon for those who are 16 and up. We get quite a range of ability and age Last year we had an 80-year-old in the race.” he said.

“Every year we have first time racers of all ages who find our course suitable for their level of racing capabilities. The course is relatively flat with few hills and the swim portion keeps everyone close to shore,” he noted.

Goodman explained that the event also has something for experienced competitors.

“For the more seasoned triathlete, the layout of the course allows them to push themselves to the limit on the bike and run portions, and it’s created some exciting races,” he said.

“Each year, we have also had the pleasure of hosting some elite pro triathletes who find our race a good “cool down” event after racing in the Ironman. It is also a great way to cap off a full summer of racing for many triathletes as this is their last race of the season.”

The race continues to grow in popularity each year. Goodman said this year’s event could accommodate up to 500 athletes. The race venue is one of the most scenic with the start and finish at Peach Orchard Beach in lower Summerland. The swim is in Lake Okanagan while the bike and run take place along Lakeshore road.

Last year’s race featured the introduction of timing chips to ensure the most accurate race time.

Additional information can be found at orcaswimclub.net or by contacting Goodman at goodman_geoff@yahoo.ca.

Registration can be done online at www.eventsonline.ca. Race entry forms are at the Summerland Aquatic Centre, Peach City Runners in Penticton or Fresh Air Experience in Kelowna.