Top five first time sprint triathlons
Do your first triathlon at one of these races
Looking to do your first sprint triathlon? In search of a race that has a favourable course, easy to get to and a fun atmosphere? These five Canadian sprints rank as our top options for taking on your first triathlon.
Montreal Espirit – Early September
Raced entirely within Parc Jean-Drapeau, Montreal Espirit offers a great racing environment, easy race transport and a simple course. The swim is in the rowing basin, where there are lines you can follow. This relieves the stress of sighting in the swim. On the bike, you remain entirely on the Formula One race track, Circuit Gilles Villeneuve. With a lap circumference of 4 kilometres, family and friends will see you speed by like an F1 racer five times. On the run, you zig zag within Parc Jean Drapeau, making a loop around the basin.
Rose City Triathlon (Welland) – End of June
Taking place at the Welland International Flatwater Centre, the Rose City triathlon is ideal for those looking to do their first sprint triathlon. Starting in the rowing basin, you have lines at the bottom that you can follow. The basin is pretty much a big swimming pool. Then on the bike, you complete a relatively flat 20km course, before doing a 5km run around the basin.
MEC Langley Sprint Triathlon – Mid August
The MEC event in Langley is a great spot to try your first triathlon. The swim takes place in the WC Blair Recreation Centre pool. This relieves much of the stress for first-timers, as you will be in a comfortable environment, with lots of first aid staff and no added burden of having to purchase a wetsuit. The bike and run routes then take place on residential roads and paths in the area, making for a stress-free race environment.
Elk Lake Sprint Triathlon – Early August
Close to downtown Victoria, Elk Lake is one of the most popular swimming lakes in the region. Its calm waters and easy sighting landmarks make the swim an enjoyable outing. The bike then weaves its way through the stunning Saanich Peninsula, before you run along the trails around Elk Lake. Although the race may be difficult to get to, it makes for a great first experience and a beautiful day outing.
Woody’s Triathlon –Â End of June
In the heart of Red Deer, Alberta, Woody’s Triathlon is held at Michener Centre Recreation Complex. The swim is in the pool, while the bike and run courses are on the surrounding roads and paths. The race weekend also offers a Kids of Steel race, so you can get the entire family involved.
