Kiawah Island Hosts Triathlon

Hundreds of men and women from all over the country will soon converge on Kiawah for an Olympic-distance triathlon set on a spectacular course that starts with an open swim in the Atlantic and travels alongside maritime forests and marsh savannas. At 7:30 a.m. on September 20, 2009, Beachwalker Park will host these exceptional athletes as they compete in a demanding race of will, endurance, and strength.

An Olympic distance triathlon consists of a 1.5 K swim, 45K bike, and 10K run. The race clock runs continually so participants must be in prime shape and be skilled in the art of transitioning from one event to the next. The athlete who finishes the entire race in the shortest amount of time is the winner. Sunday, winners will be announced for individual participants and for competing relay teams.

The first leg of the race, the swim, is often deemed the most difficult. Swimmers must maneuver around other competitors without becoming disoriented in the open water. The Atlantic will become a sea of elbows and swim caps as participants race toward the first transition area and prepare for the bike ride. This part of the race is flat and fast and follows a scenic route from The Ocean Course to Bohickett Road. For the first mile of the last leg of the race, the 10K run, runners will race down the beach on hard-packed sand and then throughout neighborhoods on well-paved roads.

After the race, participants will enjoy a post-race meal and a t-shirt marking the event. Part of the proceeds will benefit the Low Country Little League. For more information visit http://www.charlestontriathlonclub.com/kit2009/kit2009info.html.