By Jared Castañeda
In spite of gloomy skies and shivering downpours, residents and visitors persevered through the second annual Tri-Montgomery, a triathlon hosted by the Business Council of Greater Montgomery that raised money for the community and non-profit organizations.
Aside from funding the Town of Montgomery’s advertisement, tourism and beautification, proceeds from the event went to the Alzheimer’s Association, Community Foundation of Orange and Sullivan, Hospice of Orange and Sullivan, Hudson Valley Honor Flights, RDAC and Wallkill River Arts.
Around 6 a.m., 80 participants gathered at Benedict Farm Park, registered for the race and lined up, eagerly awaiting the trials before them.
“A little anxious, this is my first triathlon,” said Lynda McKeon, a visitor from New Hampton who trained extensively prior to the event.
“I’m pretty anxious, but an excited anxious. This is my first,” said Jessica McKinstrie, a Montgomery resident who also practiced several activities before today.
“It’s always fun, it’s very nice to have local races like these…I’ve been helping people new to racing,” said Ethan Kelly, a Montgomery resident who works for Bikeway and won an award during last year’s Tri-Montgomery.
At 8:30 a.m., the racers took off, starting with a 5.3-mile run, followed by a 20-mile bike course, and ending with a 1.5 kayak ride down Wallkill River. After the participants triumphantly returned to the park, they were greeted with refreshments, music and an award ceremony honoring their efforts.
“I think the participants did great, the racers came back safe. The weather wasn’t as good as we wanted it, though. Hopefully, we’ll have better weather next time and build on the event,” said Randi Picarello, executive director of the business council.
For more information on the Business Council of Greater Montgomery, visit its website at threevillages.org/. The council plans to host more community events in the upcoming months, including the “Walk to End Alzheimer’s” this Saturday, October 21, and a dinner ceremony on November 8 spotlighting local businesses.