Hundreds of competitors pedaled along East Lake Sammamish Parkway in Sammamish on Saturday with one goal in mind: To finish the 11th annual Issaquah Triathlon.
In total, about 900 competitors turned out at Lake Sammamish State Park in Issaquah to excel in the endurance event and help raise money for Sammamish-based .
Under clear blue skies, athletes took part in the triathlon, duathlon, 5K or 10 K runs. There was even a kid’s triathlon for budding competitors.
The Issaquah Triathlon uses a sprint course, which includes a 750-meter swim, 20K bike ride, and a 5K run. Less demanding than an Olympic course, the sprint course is thought of as a good way to start off the triathlon season.
Issaquah resident Ed Bullock competes in about six triathlons a year and enjoys shaking the rust off at the Issaquah Triathlon.
“It’s just a local race to have fun with,” said Bullock. This was Bullock’s fourth year of competing at the Issaquah Triathlon.
Money raised by the Issaquah Triathlon helps support Arbor Schools. The dollars are used for scholarships, computers, books, supplies and other items.
In recent years, an event organizer said Saturday, more than $70,000 has been raised for the schools, which sit off 228th Avenue Southeast.
“It’s wonderful support that we get from the community,” said Mary O’Brien, director of Arbor Schools. “We couldn’t do it without them.”
Support for the triathlon also comes from local organizations and businesses, such as Overlake Hospital Medical Center, Hilton Garden Inn, Gold’s Gym, PCC Natural Markets and Darigold.
“We’re very enthused with the support that we get,” O’Brien said.
For more information on the Issaquah Triathlon, visit the event website. Results from the day's event are expected to be posted online.
