NORTHFIELD — Eighty-seven competitors paddled along the Connecticut River, and ran and rode through the woods on Saturday as part of the fifth annual Great River Challenge.
“It was a foggy and frosty morning with blue skies prevailing, with a dramatic fog lift by start time,” said race founder David Thomas said. “We raised money for the Northfield Kiwanis summer campership program for local disadvantaged youths.”
While the numbers are not final, Thomas said the triathlon we will donate approximately $2,000 toward the campership program.
Held at the Northfield Mountain Recreation and Environmental Center, Thomas said the triathlon went off without a hitch. The 87 competitors raced in 12 different divisions, from solo to four-person teams. After completing its fifth year, Thomas is already looking forward to organizing next year’s race.
“We would like to thank the local safety teams in Northfield and Gill for volunteering their time, equipment and expertise to support our event,” Thomas said.
The Great River Challenge is distinctly unique, using the longest river in New England as part of its course. With more than 20 miles of uninterrupted river stretching around Northfield, from Vernon in Vermont to Turners Falls in Massachusetts, the Connecticut River has been deemed “The Great River.” The river is at the center of the off-road triathlon, consisting of paddling (instead of swimming), running and biking.
The Great River Challenge, has grown steadily over the last five years, Thomas said, attracting participants and their supporters. With short and long course options, the race invites athletes of all skill levels and ages. The race uses professional timing services to measure racer performances to qualify for prizes in several race categories.
The long course is 16 miles total, while the short course is 11.25 miles. The first leg of the long course is a 5-mile paddle by kayak, canoe or stand-up paddleboard, whereas the short course is a 4-mile paddle. The second leg is a 4-mile trail run on the long course, and 2½ miles on the short one. Lastly, the third leg is a 7-mile mountain bike ride on the long course and a 5-mile ride on the short one.
For more information about the triathlon, visit greatriverchallenge.com.