Dog Days Triathlon Set for Sunday in Broadlands

Organizers of the 3rd Annual , set for Aug. 7 in Broadlands, are preparing for the biggest race yet, targeting 400 participants this year, according to race organizer Kathleen McFarlane of KatMac Events. And there is still time to “try out a tri;” race registration runs through Aug. 3.

Start time is 7 a.m. at the Broadlands Southern Walk Pool off Village Drive. Participants should arrive early because arm marking and timing chip distribution begins at 5:30 a.m. The triathletes will swim 400 meters, then the race heads out to Claiborne Parkway for the 12-mile bike ride. To cap off the tri, the third leg will go onto the Broadlands trails for a 5K run.

“It’s neat to see such enthusiasm from everyone, including first-time racers to experienced triathletes who come back year after year,” McFarlane said.

Organizers have geared the tri for all levels of competition, from those running their first tri to those who have been racing for years. All participants will receive race T-shirts, while winners will earn medals. A post-race party has been planned with music, food, massages and prizes. McFarlane also said this year’s race would raise money for Inova Loudoun Hospital.

Triathlons have gained a lot of popularity in recent years, McFarlane said.

“In 2008, we organized the first sprint tri in Loudoun County, our first annual Infinitive Sprint Tri. Now, just 3 years later, it seems there’s a tri almost every weekend in Northern Virginia,” she said. “With so many races to choose from, word of mouth is key. People talk about the races they do and it’s great to be a part of so many people’s ‘go to’ summer races.”

Now people are becoming more familiar with the Dog Days race as well.

“Dog Days is certainly making a name for itself in the tri community,” McFarlane said, adding that she appreciates the “opportunity to organize such a fun fitness event in our community.”

According to USA Triathlon, interest in triathlons is at an all-time high, growing 30 percent since 2008. Some interesting statistics:

• 38 – Average age of triathletes
• 95 percent participate for the personal challenge
• 87 percent participate to stay in shape.
• 60 percent are male
• 40 percent are female.
• 63 percent are married
• 49 percent report white collared jobs.

For this year’s Dog Days Tri, premier sponsor Lifetime Fitness will have 30 to 40 volunteers on hand. Lifetime is the official race starter and will donate prizes. Other sponsors include and .

Tri-Performance will time the race and provide volunteers on race day. Tri-Performance is the largest Tri Club in Ashburn.

Bicycle Outfitters in Leesburg is the official bike sponsor and will assist with checking bikes and helmets to make sure they are race ready.

So head out for the big community event, as a participant or to cheer on the racers, and get your “tri“ on!