Highest Elevation Triathlon Gets Green Light For Dillon Next Year
DILLON, Colo. (CBS4) - Thousands of extreme athletes will converge for the highest triathlon in the world taking place Sept. 10, 2016 in Summit County, organizers announced Thursday.
The 106-Degree West Triathlon at Dillon event has been in the planning stages for a decade, but now has the green light from local, state and regional officials to hold the event next year.
Participants will adventure through a 1.2 mile swim in Dillon Reservoir, a 56-mile bike through the Dillon and the surrounding area, and finishing with a 13.1 mile run.
It's the first time ever people will be allowed to swim in the reservoir. A wavier was granted to the event because race organizers promised safety precautions will be in place to keep participants safe.
"As we all know there is a strong triathlon culture in Colorado, but never before have we had an opportunity to highlight this culture in an iconic setting like Summit County. This race will define what's possible for Colorado as a triathlon destination for the world," said Luis Benitez, Director of Colorado Recreation.
"The Town of Dillon is thrilled to be sponsoring an event of this caliber in Summit County. The combination of scenic beauty and the intrinsic challenges at our elevation, creates a truly unique opportunity for competitors," Dillon Mayor Kevin Burns said.
Human Movement Inc., CEO, Jeff Suffolk added, "106-Degree West has been a long time vision of mine to host this event so proprietary and challenging in a setting that can only be found in our backyard."
In partnership with Dillon Reservoir Recreation Committee, Denver Water and the Town of Dillon, the 106-Degree West Triathlon course will feature half-ironman distance and quarter-man distance.
A portion of ticket sales will benefit official charity partner Challenged Athlete Foundation (CAF). CAF provides opportunities and support to people with physical challenges to pursue active lifestyles and competitive athletics.
Tickets will go on sale on Nov. 6 and athletes can pre-register at www.106WestTri.com. Pre-registration opens Sept. 10 and will guarantee entry into the 2016 event.
106-Degree West is a great way to introduce a local business to potential new customers. Please email info@humanmovement.com for further details.
Matt Kroschel covers news throughout Colorado working from the CBS4 Mountain Newsroom. Send story ideas to mrkroschel@cbs.com and connect with him on Twitter @Matt_Kroschel.
