Introducing the highest triathlon in the world: 106 West Triathlon
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Looking for a destination race later this year? There’s a new one on the map and it’s not for the weak of heart. Created by Human Movement, 106° West Triathlon is the “highest triathlon in the world” taking place at 9,156’ elevation in the stunning setting of Dillon, Colorado. Offering both half and Olympic distance events, Canadian triathletes not used to the altitude can start with something shorter or dive right in to the long course option. The inaugural race will take place on September 10, 2016 and will feature an exclusive open water swim in Lake Dillon, the highest deep-water marina in North America.
At nearly 3.5 km above sea level, where 49° north meets 106° west, the 106° West Triathlon traverses the heart of the Colorado Rockies. With a $25,000 prize purse and exclusive permission granted to swim in the famous Lake Dillon, 106° West Triathlon will draw some big names including Canadian pro Jenny Fletcher, who is one of the race’s ambassadors.
Fletcher says it’s the perfect race to add to your calendar this year or to your race bucket list.
“It’s such a fun and challenging place to come race!” she tells TMC. “I’d say make it a destination race and bring the whole family and stay a bit before and after and enjoy what Colorado has to offer.
Training for altitude racing is challenging. The best way is to actually be at altitude but it’s not always easy to make that happen. There are definitely ways to make sure you get through the race successfully! My greatest advice is don’t start out hard and just dial it all back. If you try to go too hard in altitude you will not be able to recover fast enough and therefore your body will struggle to even move at all as breathing can get hard. Just focus on relaxed breathing. The body is amazing and can handle almost anything you set before it. So just remember the power of the mind.”
Luis Benitez, Director of Colorado Recreation explains, “As we all know there is a strong triathlon culture in Colorado, but never before have we had an opportunity to highlight this culture in an iconic setting like Summit County. This race will define what’s possible for Colorado as a triathlon destination for the
A portion of ticket sales will benefit the race’s official charity partner Challenged Athlete Foundation (CAF). CAF provides opportunities and support to people with physical challenges to pursue active lifestyles and competitive athletics. Athletes can register at www.106WestTri.com.
Half distance athletes will follow the 2 km swim in Lake Dillon with a 90 km ride course through historic mountain towns, maxing out at an elevation of 10,291’. Competitors will then run around the Dillon Reservoir for 21.1 km in the shadows of the Tenmile Range and Gore Range mountains.
Race Director Jeff Suffolk told TMC, “The great events in this world have one thing in common, proprietary real estate and incredible passion for the sport. We’ve been working on 106 West for a very long time and we’re extremely excited to announce one of the most exclusive and beautiful triathlon venues in the world.”
