A few weeks ago, a group of friends and I celebrated a 60th birthday in a lovely cabin in Claytor Lake State Park. As we were out exercising that first morning, we happened upon the Claytor Lake Triathlon. Started in 2011, the planners of the event wanted to hold a triathlon on the open water, as opposed to a swimming pool, and in an suburban environment, away from urban traffic. 156 competitors, including those in the relay, participated in the 2016 Triathlon.
We were so inspired as we watched individuals of both genders, all ages, and various abilities swim, bike, and run to the finish.
The hardcore athletes were easy to pick out, but it was the “regular folk” who moved us to tears.
The Triathon includes a 500 meter swim
A 12.5 mile bike
and a 5K Run
I’ve never photographed a sporting event before, but I could not put my camera down. In between cheering for the competitors, and wiping my tearful eyes, I just had to keep shooting.
What an awesome support team for Dad!
Some competitors accomplished all three portions by themselves.
Others competed in a team relay, and either swam, rode, or ran.
What a thrill to watch, and what an accomplishment for these competitors.
Maybe I’ll give it a try next year 🙂
Life on the Bike and other Fab Things 