Woolwich residents are being encouraged to “Try a Tri” – athalon, that is.
Woolwich councillor Mark Bauman is busy promoting the April 18 event at the Woolwich Memorial Centre.
It will be part of Healthy Communities Month, an annual month-long schedule of activities planned by Woolwich Healthy Communities.
Bauman said that he came up with the idea when trying to find a way to showcase the new recreation complex.
“Part of it is a competition for those so inclined,” said Bauman, “but the real goal is participation.”
The event is open to all those aged three and up, and will involve the three classic components of triathalon – swimming, biking and running (or walking).
Participants will be encouraged to participate at the level at which they feel comfortable, said Bauman.
For swimming, for instance, swimmers will swim 10 lengths of the pool – or take 10 minutes for the swim, whichever comes first. Participants can either walk or run, and can bike up to 10 km, but are also allowed to do less.
There is even an opportunity to put together a relay team for the triathalon, allowing three participants to each take on a portion of the event.
Children will also participate in a modified triathalon.
Participants are encouraged to collect sponsors, making the event a fundraiser for both Woolwich Healthy Communities, and the Woolwich Memorial Centre.
And added bonus, said Bauman, will be the enjoyment everyone gets out of participating.
“I think fun is the key word,” said Bauman. “We want to encourage people to get out and get active, and to have fun with their families.”
Registration will take place through the Woolwich Memorial Centre in Elmira.