Munson Healthcare, Paul Oliver Memorial Hospital among sponsors for Oct. 15 event
The camaraderie of competition and completing the challenge of a 10- or 22-mile triathlon in the beauty of northern Michigan is the pull of the third annual Tri Up-North triathlon set for Oct. 15 in Frankfort.
“We’ve created courses that celebrate the local beauty and up-north lifestyle that we enjoy for both the recreational athletes and the competitive racers,” said Andrew Johnson, race director. “The event can be completed solo or as a two- or three-person team. Having the ability to also compete as a team is a great way to increase the fun.”
Paul Oliver Memorial Hospital President Peter Marinoff said his hospital, the Munson Healthcare system and Betsie Hosick Health and Fitness Center are sponsoring the event to encourage active community lifestyles.
“Munson Healthcare appreciates the efforts by young and old to get out and enjoy an active lifestyle in the beauty or our region,” he said. “We also are encouraging our employees to get involved in a team setting by offering them a $10 discount to compete.”
Johnson said the 10-mile event includes a six mile bike ride, one-mile paddle, and three mile run on a safe, flat and fast course. The 22-mile event involves a 14-mile bike ride, two-mile paddle, and six-mile run. The longer course extends into the hills surrounding Crystal Lake and Betsie Bay which offers vistas of Benzie County.
The paddle portion can use either a kayak or stand-up paddleboard. Rentals are available.
Sponsor coordinator Bill Kennis said Betsie Hosick Fitness Center members also can receive a $10 discount on the entry fee. “Munson Healthcare, Paul Oliver Memorial Hospital and the Betsie Hosick Fitness Center are really leading the community by encouraging their employees and members to participate,” he said. “We’re expecting a great race and a record number of participants this year.”
All racers will receive a Stormcloud Brewing Company glass, performance race shirt, finishing medal. Top finishers will receive a Storm Cloud Metal Growler award.
More information can be found at Tri-UpNorth.com.