In the spirit of the show must go on, the Willow Creek Triathlon must go on.
That is according to the triathlon committee following the devastating fire at The Shack at Corydon, one of the transition points of the triathlon.
“We are very thankful to be able to proceed with our event. At the same time, our thoughts and prayers are with all affected by Sunday’s fire,” said race director Gregg Reynolds.
The Shack at Corydon, previously known as The Corydon Hotel, has been part of the triathlon since its inception.
“They have been more than gracious hosts to us,” Reynolds said. “We consider them a huge part of this triathlon and hope they get back on their feet soon.”
But in true Feely fashion, they are ready to soldier on. The Shack’s parking lot will again serve as a transition point where the participants leave their bicycles and finish the third leg of the triathlon by running to The Willows.
The Shack was supposed to hold “carb up for the race night” Friday night, but that has been cancelled.
“We will have the parking lot ready for you,” said Kate Feely, who runs The Shack with her husband Dave. “We will be ready for everyone.”
The event, in its 12th year, raises money for Disabled American Veterans in McKean and Warren counties. The money is earmarked for the DAV Transportation Network, which is used to purchase and maintain vans providing transportation of vets to and from VA hospitals and clinics.
Money donated to the triathlon stays within the local area and is evenly divided between the two counties.
Registration packets can be picked up from 3 to 6 p.m. Friday at The Bradford Family YMCA, where registrations will also be accepted.
Registrations will also be accepted and packets can be picked up Saturday at Quaker Beach in Allegany State Park in New York State from 7 to 8:30 a.m.
The cost is $50 for individuals and $90 for teams.
Last year, the triathlon raised $42,960. To date, the triathlon has raised $233,900 for local veterans.
The event begins with a 300-yard swim in Quaker Lake followed by 15 miles on a bicycle until participants reach The Shack at Corydon. The race finishes with a three-mile run on West Washington Street, Bradford, to The Willows Restaurant, where the day continues with food, music and an awards ceremony.
The duathlon includes the bicycle and running portions.
Registration starts at 7 a.m. with a rules meeting at 9 a.m. and the swimming starts at 9:30 a.m.
The top male and female triathlon individuals receive the Thom Maholic Memorial Award. Master Sergeant Thom Maholic was a Green Beret with Special Forces in Afghanistan. He lost his life in a battle with the Taliban in June 2006.
The Brad Keltz Braveheart Awards are given to those determined people who make an extra effort under extenuating circumstances to compete in and complete the race.
Questions about the race can be emailed at director@willowcreektriathlon.org. More information is on www.willowcreektriathlon.org.
