Whether you’re an elite triathlete, a weekend warrior or someone looking to test themselves, the upcoming seventh Great River Challenge can provide an opportunity to get some exercise in while also enjoying the natural beauty of Northfield.
Set for this Saturday at 10 a.m., participants will paddle, run and bike their way around the Connecticut River and Northfield Mountain Recreation Center in a “non-traditional” triathlon. Teams of four, three and duos can participate in a relay race, or people can race on their own on either a long course (16.5 miles) or a short course (11.25 miles).
“It’s a beautiful time of year outside, it’s a great way to spend your day.”” said Race Director David Thomas. “There’s a long course and short course depending on how much experience you have or how much you want to take on for the day.”
Saturday’s edition is the seventh Great River Challenge. The race usually attracts around 100 racers of all skills and ages each year, according to Thomas.
Online registrations are open until Friday evening. Registrations for the long course run between $75 to $220, and the short course costs $55 to $220, depending on the type of race selected. More information can be found at greatriverchallenge.com
The race, Thomas said, was born out of an idea to generate more awareness about the recreational opportunities available in Northfield. The idea of the race was brought forward to the Northfield Kiwanis Club and the Northfield Area Tourism and Business Association, which helped kick off the inaugural event. All proceeds from the race go toward the Northfield Kiwanis Club to support local children.
“Some years we’ve done a college scholarship for local kids and youth camperships … with COVID, sometimes we’ve done food aid for local families,” Thomas said. “It always varies.”
Racers of all ages and skill levels are welcome to participate in the race, which starts off with a boat race on the Connecticut River wrapping around Captain Kidd’s Island. Once people reach the dock, they’ll ditch their boat and start running a mixed road/trail course leading them to the Recreation Center. After running, the race concludes with a mountain bike course that will lead people up and around Northfield Mountain before bringing them back down to the finish line – the short course, however, does not go up to the top of the mountain. Northfield and Gill first responders will be working the race to ensure everyone is safe.
Races are timed and there are prizes for several of the race’s categories. Despite this, Thomas emphasized that this race is more laid back than others and while there is an opportunity for elite athletes to participate, everyone is welcome to give it a shot.
“It’s a low-key race,” he said. “You can make it what you want.”
At the finish line, racers will be greeted by live music and food. By participating, all attendees will get a free race shirt and a free lunch.
Returning race sponsors include: Returning sponsors include: Greenfield Savings Bank, First Light Power Resources, Stellar Kayaks, Northfield Area Tourism and Business Association, Franklin County Chamber of Commerce, the Northfield Golf Club, The Brewery at Four Star Farms, Viles Insurance, Franklin County’s Y, Greenfield Solar and Centennial House Bed and Breakfast. The Fenton Family Dealerships of Keene and Fogbuster Coffee Works are also joining the race as sponsors this year.