‘Anything is possible’

Local couple excited for Summerside competition Sunday

The sport of triathlon has had a big impact on the lives of one Summerside couple.

Dave Perry and his wife, Sandra, have used the three elements of the sport - swimming, cycling and running - to lose a combined 190 pounds over the past six years.

“We started with a workplace challenge to run 5K in 2009, caught the fitness bug and now we love taking part in events such as this,” said Sandra this week. “We went from couch potatoes to an active couple participating in as many races as we can.

“When I look back and compare myself then to where I am now, I know anything is possible.”

The couple enters numerous road races and triathlons throughout the region.

“I used to dream of owning a convertible,” says Dave, “but now all I ever want is a new pair of sneakers.”

Tri-Lobster Triathlon

The Perrys will be two of the entries going through their paces at the first ever Tri-Lobster Triathlon on the Summerside waterfront on Sunday. It is part of the Summerside Lobster Festival.

A large entry is expected for the event, which will act as a qualifier for the world championships at the Olympic distance. In addition to the full race, there are categories offered in duathlon - run and bike only - a super sprint and a sprint, in addition to a Kids Of Steel race for those aged between five and 12.

“We are delighted and excited to be hosting the Tri-Lobster Triathlon,” said Triathlon P.E.I. president and race director Billy MacDonald. “Not only will it be an opportunity for the serious triathletes to gain a qualifying time for the worlds, it is a chance for athletes of all ages and abilities to participate in what will be a great event.

“We have worked hard to put this together with the City of Summerside, and we will be ready to host many of the finest triathletes in the region.”

The start time will be 9 a.m., and the Kids of Steel will commence at 2 p.m.

More details on the event, including how to register, can be found at www.trilobster.ca, or by going to the Tri-Lobster Triathlon Facebook page.

All participants must be registered by Saturday, July 18, as no registrations will be taken on race day.

SUBMITTED PHOTO Sandra MacKinnon-Perry and her husband, Dave, will be two of the participants this weekend at the Tri-Lobster triathlon at the Summerside waterfront. The couple has used elements of triathlon to embrace a healthy lifestyle, going from self-confessed...