The Annual Galena Triathlon & Duathlon

The Galena Triathlon & Duathlon is a challenging point-to-point sprint distance race held in picturesque Jo Daviess County, where you’ll find our premier Galena resort.  Named one of the “top 10” sprint triathlons in the U.S. by USA Triathlon (USAT), this popular annual event is approaching its 12th year – at breakneck speed.

    The 12th Annual Galena Triathlon & Duathlon, scheduled for May 19 this year (2007), always inspires excitement.  Guests to our resort in Galena – whether participants or spectators – delight in the competition.  The Triathlon consists of a 660-yard swim, 16.8 miles of biking and, last but not least, a 4.3-mile run.  The Duathlon features a two-mile run, followed by a 16.8-mile bike ride and another 4.3-mile run.

Competitors are divided according to age group.  Athletes from the ages of 15 to 70+ are divided into groups, and each age group consists of members born within five years of each other – i.e. ages 15-19 compete, 20-24, 25-29, etc.  Guests of all ages from our Galena resort who sign up in advance are eligible to compete (galena.org/triathlon).

For triathletes, the event begins with a swim in the clear, cool waters of Apple Canyon Lake with a beach start and finish. The swim-to-bike transition is adjacent to the beach.  The second leg of the race is a breathtakingly beautiful bike on the hilly and winding country roads of Jo Daviess County.

The final 4.3-mile run winds up and down picturesque lanes and roadways to the finish line, located in Recreation Park, the site of a free post race party.  For our Galena IL Resort guests particularly interested in outdoor recreation, these Annual Triathlon & Duathlon events provide excellent outdoor opportunities.

The race is timed using ChampionChip® timing, a high-tech timing system that provides net times and splits for every individual competitor.  After each race, custom medals are ceremoniously awarded to the top individuals in each age group.  Guests to our Galena resort are often moved by these triumphant presentations.

The post-race party starts at 11:00 a.m. at the Recreation Park in Galena, and features food, beverages and music. The party is conveniently located near the finish line and Transition #2.  Athletes receive one free meal and beverage upon showing their Run Race Number at the food tent, and spectators may purchase food and beverages.

Galena Hotel

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