The fourth annual Tri/Du takes place Aug. 25 with the action centered around 15th Avenue beach in North Wildwood.
Triathlons are athletic events consisting of swimming, cycling, and running. There are no prescribed distances for any of these events, but they are run consecutively. That’s important to note because the time a participant needs between events is included in that competitor’s official time.
That’s the “Tri” of Tri/Du. The “Du” refers to the duathlon, which consists of a run, followed by cycling, followed by more running.
According to Delmo Sports, organizers of the Wildwood Tri/Du, the event has become the “second largest sprint triathlon in south Jersey.” This year’s race could draw as many as 600 competitors.
In addition to providing an outlook for athletes to test themselves, the event raises money for local causes. According to organizers, more than $18,000 has been donated to local community activities, primarily youth activities, in the three years the event has been run.
The triathlon consists of a quarter-mile ocean box swim between 15th and 18th avenues, an 11-mile bike ride, and a 3.1-mile run along the beach. Athletes of all ages and levels of experience will participate.
The duathlon substitutes a two-mile run along the beach for the swim.
The cycle segment takes riders along the scenic route of North Wildwood, starting at the 13th Avenue end of Kennedy Boulevard. Cyclists will move along the beach front to Second Avenue. The course follows Second past the construction at Moore’s Inlet and into Anglesea before turning around and heading back to Central Avenue.
The course, organizers assure, will be elaborately marked with traffic cones, arrows, and volunteers will line the path urging participants forward.
Over $1000 in cash prizes will be awarded to the top three male and female finishers ($300, $200, $100 each).
Race director Steve Delmonte is a local and prides himself on making this event satisfying in all respects for those who participate. He is also a triathlete, having been involved with the Wildwood Triathlon Club, founded in 2006 by local athletes who enjoy competing in triathlons.
His Delmo Sports has also been involved in organizing the Doo Wop Duathlon, held for the second year in mid April.
The athletes are ready, and assuming the elements cooperate, will be on the beach early on the 25th. The event starts at 7:30 a.m. Spectators are encouraged to attend.
