Super League Triathlon an invitation for the world to come see Penticton
When Super League Triathlon comes to Penticton Aug. 17 to 19, it will be the only North American stop on the tour.
“Word is out there that Penticton is on the triathlon map,” said Michael Brown, organizer of Penticton’s Super League event.
Brown was in front of Penticton city council for their committee of the whole meeting Tuesday.
Pro triathletes, including Olympians, will be competing in the three days of swimming, biking and running.
An expected 400-plus athletes will compete in the usual disciplines, but the order of the events and distances will be mixed up, creating more diverse races with better viewing opportunities for spectators.
“For triathletes who have been doing triathlons for years, this is something new and exciting. We have changed up the format,” Brown said.
Top pros like Ben Kenute, who is an Ironman champion and 2016 Summer Olympian, will be competing in Super League Penticton. Two-time Ironman world champion Chris McCormack of Australia is also on contract to be here. Athletes from as far as Great Britain and Spain are expected too.
“Super League is in places like Jakarta and Portugal, so Penticton is in good company,” said Brown. “We are trying to engage millennials to join. They are busy wearing bibs for Tough Mudder and Spartans but we are trying to attract them to try triathlon.”
Coun. Judy Sentes said Penticton is on the world stage again.
“Triathlon is near and dear to my heart. I feel compelled to say ITU (World Multisport Festival) was an astounding success last year and Denmark held it next and fell short,” said Sentes.
“We are the only city in North America to host Super League. Everything else is in Europe. This is a huge invitation to the world to come see Penticton.”
Brown said Penticton’s Super League is being recognized and featured in triathlon magazines and blogs across the world.
“We are getting requests from Australia and Great Britain media to cover this event,” said Brown.
Brown, executive director of MB Events, the sports management company who previously brought Challenge and ITU to Penticton, said road closures will be reduced this year.
“We really tried to keep most of the community as open as possible. Lakeshore Drive will have one lane open,” he said.
Brown said they have a good contingent of volunteers already but are happy to take more.
For more information go to superleaguecanada.com.