Sydenham Triathlon Draws Local Athletes

Jul 08, 2010

Just a few of many local athletes who crossed the finish line l-r Diane Wowk, Karen Murphy and Danielle Tohill of Perth Road, Kurt Hughes of Verona, and Rob Moyse of Sydenham

The Greater Sydenham and Kingston Triathlon, now in its second year, is growing in popularity and attracting local athletes and volunteers. The well organized and highly scenic event at Sydenham's Point park offers something for all athletes aged two to 82, including an Olympic Triathlon & Relay, Sprint Triathlon & Relay, Super Sprint, Canoe and Kayak triathlons as well a sprint Duathlon. Newcomers wanting to get a taste of the action can also participate in a “Try A Tri”, especially designed for the uninitiated.

Professional athletes also take part in the event and Sydenham's local world champion triathlete Scott Takala competed again this year in the Olympic Triathlon race, which included a 1500m swim, 40 km bike ride and 10km run. Scott successfully defended his title, clocking in at the finish line with a time of 1.03.35.

What really stood out at this year's event was the number of new local participants who also crossed the finish line in various events

In total, well over 500 participants took part this year – which is up 100 from last year. It is an amazing number especially considering that last year's triathlon broke attendance records for a first-time event by Somersault Promotions of Ottawa, who runs the event. Race director Richard Cadman explained, “What happens is the event gets known by word of mouth as participants invite their friends to take part- making it more and more popular year after year.”

Christine McKinty, co-partner of Somersault Promotions, was thrilled with the enthusiasm shown by the local community, who rallied behind the triathlon both as participants and volunteers. “There is a tremendous amount of local support at this event. We have more locals participating as well as more locals volunteering at this particular event than at any others that we run.”

The Sydenham Legion was the event’s official host club this year and provided the majority of volunteers. The Sydenham Lake Canoe Club was also credited for providing boats to assist in the set up of the buoys in the lake. Trousdale's General Store and a number of other local business provided prizes, and the South Frontenac Township Council supported the event by approving its run for a second year.

Assistant race director Maryanne Takala of Sydenham said the event ran without a hitch. “Everything was in place from last year, which always makes things run a bit more smoothly.”

The only change this year was the relocation of the transition zone from the ball field to the football field, which allowed participants more space to get on and off their bikes.

Every participant I spoke to was pleased with the event, the scenery, the courses, and the organization of the races.

The only suggestion for improvement I heard was from one participant who was a bit unnerved during the bike portion of her race due to the large trucks driving on Rutledge Road. When I asked McKinty about that she replied, “Ideally we'd love to be able to close the road to traffic but sometimes logistically that just isn't an option..” She agreed that it could be looked into.

For local athletes looking for a challenge the Greater Sydenham and Kingston Triathlon is a growing trend that looks as though it will be back by popular demand.