Annual Triathlon hosted in Strathmore returns

By John Watson Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

Local triathletes took to the pool and to the streets on Sept. 11, with the return of the 17th annual Tri Diva Tri in Strathmore. 

The women’s only race is part of a series of events hosted by Platinum Racing and features multiple distance options for competitors, as well as a duathlon. 

“[The races] are very short compared to an ironman or an ultradistance race, so this is very easy to participate in and enjoy,” said Platinum Racing chief sweat officer Tom Bamford.

“What we do is try to create an event that gives everybody the chance to participate.”

The races were forced to cancel through the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic and its accompanying public health restrictions, which Bamford added made this year’s event all the more exciting.

“It feels wonderful to be back. Everybody waited for the event last year [and] couldn’t do it so they’re thrilled to be back this year doing it.”

105 racers signed up for the event this year. Bamford said the event typically hosts around 200 racers, but the event was capped at the smaller number of participants due to ongoing health concerns.

“This year, with just the way that COVID-19 has gone it’s less, but we’re still thrilled to have a race going on.”

“It’s unique, offering a women’s only event out of our 12 events through the year. I think that’s great, it’s got a special perspective and it’s different in that way.”

Two options were provided for triathletes. The sprint consisted of a 500-meter swim, 20 km bike ride, and a five km run. The Try-a-Tri was half the distance in each discipline.

The Duathlon consisted of a 2.5 km run, 20 km bike ride, followed by another five km run.

Bamford added that many of the racers have been participating in in the event year after year and it has developed a regular community that tends to come out every occasion.

“We have a lot of repeat [athletes] but after 17 years, they are bringing their kids or their grandkids along with them, which is great to see multi generations … I think they get to pass the torch on for active lifestyles,” he explained.

“It’s not about being competitive, it’s about participating in a challenge that you set for yourself. To swim, bike and run … it’s an adventure, and when you can bring out your friends and family, that adventure makes the day bigger for everybody.”

Platinum Racing offers several racing events throughout the year and encourages any who are curious to come out and give racing a try.