The annual Kelowna Apple Triathlon is returning to our downtown core for its 35th year the weekend of Aug. 17 to 19.
After taking a year off due to conflicting events, the Apple Tri is refreshing itself with a new-ish location, returning to Bernard Avenue.
“We are excited to be right in the heart of downtown Kelowna again,” said Susie Ernsting, race director.
Created in 1983 The Apple Triathlon is hailed as one of the longest standing races in North America.
“This race holds a very important place in the history of triathlon, not only in BC but across Canada,” added Ernsting.
“The event has a rich history of hosting International level events, while also remaining true to the community and always featuring a race for everyone.”
Kelowna’s Apple Tri has been named the 2018 Triathlon Canada National Championships and CAMTRI Continental Cup. This means that close to 1,400 athletes from across Canada and the Americas (North, South, and Central) will flock to our city to compete, some of which are training for the 2020 Olympics.
Age group racers are not just after a title this year, but are participating in hopes of earning a spot to represent Canada at the 2019 ITU Triathlon Grand Finale in Lausanne, Switzerland. Elite Athletes will be racing to earn coveted ITU Points which will allow them to earns spots at World Championships and Major Games.
Races begin bright and early on Saturday, Aug. 18, with the Youth and Try-A-Tri, along with the CAMTRI races qualifying heats for the A, B or C finals on Sunday.
Sunday, Aug. 19, is the day to watch those vying for a coveted spot in the finale with the standard, standard relay and sprint categories all heading out. The route this year will not only take participants through our buzzing downtown but up Dilworth mountain to take in staggering views.
This event is not only for those who wish to participate, but the entire community is welcome and encouraged to take it all in.
“We encourage everyone to come and out and cheer on the athletes on Saturday and Sunday. Triathlon is truly a unique sport and allows for the general public to watch the sport’s most elite athletes from their local streets without purchasing a ticket,” said Ernsting.
In addition to a weekend filled with elite athletics, spectators and participants can also enjoy the annual Fresh Air Concept/Experience Expo. Featuring local businesses, athletic vendors and educational booths, the Expo carries on from Friday afternoon to the end of the day Saturday.
For a full schedule and list of events, visit the Kelowna Apple Triathlon website.
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