By Joe Nuss
Ohio’s epic American Triple-T race, four triathlons over three days, is coming to White Lake, NC, October 8-10. With 140 miles of races spread over a weekend that includes a super sprint, two olympics in the same day, and a half iron finale, the American Triple-T is sure to become an East Coast classic. The unique race format was developed by HFP Racing Founder Shannon Kurek more than six years ago and has since come to rival Ironman in spirit and toughness. Kurek’s experience as a race director and competitor fostered the event’s no holds barred attitude toward providing a top-notch experience both in course design and amenities for athletes.
Starting on Friday, October 8th, the American Triple-T kicks off with an afternoon super sprint triathlon. Saturday, participants are challenged to two olympics, the first a traditional format race in the morning and the second, a bike-swim-run format race in the afternoon. Then, on Sunday morning, triathletes get to tackle the finale half iron event, one which Gordo Byrn, co-author of the consummate triathlon book Going Long, once described as one of the toughest races he’s ever run. All races feature a time trial start and can be run solo, or on a two-man team. All athletes, solo and teams, must finish each event, making strategy, not too mention fitness, a key factor in winning.
Among the swag for American Triple-T participants is a high-quality singlet required to be worn by all athletes during the race. Other amenities include a towel and water bottle for all participants. In addition, prizes for top teams and solo triathletes include bike frames, Garmin Forerunners, wetsuits and Hammer Nutrition Packages.
“Yeah we know it sounds crazy,” said Kurek, “but it attracts a really special group of athletes – it’s just incredible to see the participants, all wearing matching singlets, finish that final race on Sunday. Many athletes say it’s much harder than even an Ironman.”
Kurek also added “the American Triple-T North Carolina will offer participants intimate camaraderie and sportsmanship that is rarely found in traditional triathlons – you just can’t spend that much time together with fellow triathletes (suffering) and not come away saying this is one of the coolest events I’ve ever done.”
“We’re just thrilled the American Triple-T has chosen White Lake for its North Carolina venue,” said Dawn Maynard, Elizabethtown-White Lake Chamber of Commerce. “We look forward to rolling out the red carpet for all the participants in the American Triple-T North Carolina.”
