This year marked the 15th anniversary of Elkford’s organized race, drawing 110 locals and athletes from Elkford and surrounding communities to come out and enjoy a day of fresh air and recreation.
“It encourages health and fitness and brings people to the community and shows off our community spirit,” Organizer Garity Stanley said.
Several Fernie locals came out to show their support.
Fernie’s Realign massage therapist Julie Gallant provided athletes with free massages after finishing the triathlon.
And Fernie athlete Aidan Lindsay also left an impression, finishing first in the individual female spring with a time of 1:21.27.
Stanley said over 40 volunteers showed up on Sunday to ensure the triathlon went smoothly.
“I really praise and thank those involved that helped,” she said.
“People take pride in it. It’s a huge accomplishment as an athlete to be able to come and partake, and as volunteer, they take pride in the day.”
Participants started off the day with a 750 metre swim in the Elkford Aquatic Centre, followed by a 20 km bike ride and finishing off the triathlon with a five km run.
Brad Cromey had the top time for the extreme spring — a version of the triathlon that entails a more vigorous bike route, and Jaffray local Travis Rahselt had the lowest time for the individual male spring finishing up with a time of 1:12.44.
But a lot of participants came out for more than just results.
“It’s about finishing the race, not so much winning the race,” Stanley said.
Next year organizers Marg Bissonnette and Stanley will be stepping down, with Elkford local Brandee Dean coming forward to coordinate the 2015 triathlon.