Family-friendly triathlon is Aug. 26 in Libby

The Kootenai Valley Triathlon — consisting of a 5k run, a 7-mile paddle on the Kootenai River and a 7-mile bike ride — is set for Saturday, Aug. 26.

The three-year-old event is hosted by Libby Christian Church and is family-friendly and designed for amateur athletes, said organizer Jared Lampton.

“People do it in teams of two, or four, and for some serious athletes who want to push themselves it’s a competitive event they do alone,” Lampton said. “We’re not really stringent on rules, it’s about having an event in town that encourages a healthy lifestyle and gets people involved.”

The church holds a free lunch after the event for all the hungry participants and their families. Noticing some people in the past have chosen do the course slowly all day and miss lunch, this year a 3 km walk has been added so everyone can finish by lunchtime, Lampton said.

“A lot of people get their kids involved,” said Lampton, who might compete in a team with his 7-year-old son doing the cycling portion this year. “Whatever your level or ability, you can participate.”

Community participation in the form of spectators is encouaged for the different legs of the event. The race starts at Libby Christian Church, and runners make their way to J. Neils Park. Boaters launch from the pavilion boat ramp, then paddle to the end of River Road and bike River Road back to the church.

Early registration ends Aug. 7 and costs $50 for adults and $35 for those aged 17 and under. After early registration ends, the costs are $60 and $45, respectively. Participants receive a t-shirt and other goodies in a gift bag on event day.

Register online at libbychristianchurch.com/events/triathlon or call the church at 406-293-3747.

Lampton said any profits will go to the Libby Youth Center.