Successful Triathlon weekend

To the editor:

It truly took a village to host the Fairmont Youth and Adult Triathlons and the 5K Run for the Bacon this past weekend. The event begins with generous sponsors who believe in our mission and make it all possible. The City of Fairmont graciously allows us to use the Aquatic Park and Gomsrud Park. Our Park Department sets up the fencing for the bike transition areas, while the County provides traffic cones and street barriers to help keep athletes and spectators safe.

Athletes were treated to fresh fruit and cookies donated by Hy-Vee and Fareway. Culligan generously supplied water, Fairmont Ford donated hydration drinks to keep participants refreshed, and for those of age, Fairmont Brewing Company offered a celebratory mug of brew. The aroma of grilled bacon filled the air as every athlete received slices served by the 1590 Bacon Capital crew. Spectators also enjoyed a delicious menu from Tami’s on the Ave food trailer. Blake Pothoff kept the energy high with music and announcements, creating a festive atmosphere while recognizing the incredible athletes as they crossed the finish line.

Our youth participants enjoyed ice cream from O’Scoops and food from Scotty Big’s. New this year was a celebratory Foam Party, provided by KBEW’s Michelle Hall, which was a huge hit with the kids.

It is especially impressive that more than 80 volunteers donated their time to fill a variety of essential roles, including directing bikers and runners, handing out water and snacks, managing registration, and providing water safety support with kayaks, jet skis, and a pontoon.

Most importantly, we thank the athletes who participated–whether they came for fun, personal accomplishment, or competition. We welcomed participants as young as five years old, some using flotation devices and training wheels, all the way to athletes in their 70s who were posting times faster than competitors decades younger. The cheers, homemade signs, and words of encouragement throughout the course were true examples of a community coming together to support one another.

We hope you’ll join us again in 2027. Date: June 19, 2027.

To learn more, contact committee members Amanda Forstrom, Sara Pierce Moore, Katy Pierce, Ruth Cyphers, Katie Cochran, Brooke Maday, and Char Kahler. Additional huge helpers, Paul Carlson, or Brandon Nordstrom.

FairmontTriathlon.org

Char Kahler

Fairmont