Lititz recCenter Schedules Summer Athletic Event
For the last several years, the Lititz recCenter has encouraged team participation in its annual triathlon. Simon Ababou, fitness director for the rec center, would especially like to see families participate as teams with children possibly taking part in the swimming event and parents completing the running and cycling portions.
The 2022 triathlon, which requires participants to swim 300 meters in the Lititz Springs outdoor pool, bike 15.8 miles through the farmland surrounding Lititz, and run 3.1 miles, will be held on Sunday, Aug. 7, starting at 8 a.m. As in the past, the event will be held at the Lititz recCenter, 301 W. Maple St., Lititz.
In addition to teams made up of families, Ababou noted that teams could be employees from local businesses or fellow church members. Ababou said that employers are welcome to sponsor employees in the event. Teams may consist of up to three people as long as all events are completed. Cash prizes will be awarded to the top three overall men and women, and medals will be given to the top three male and female finishers in several age groups. Additionally, a first-place medal will be given to the team that wins the relay.
With the relaxation of COVID-19 rules, social distancing and masking should not be factors in this year's competition. Because the event is held outside, there is less risk of viral transmission. He stated that the fitness industry is seeing people slowly return to working out regularly. "People got used to being at home and not engaging in (fitness) activities," he commented, noting that worry and becoming accustomed to being isolated have contributed to the trend. He reported that last year nearly 230 participants were involved in the triathlon. This year, Ababou hopes to see more take part.
Participants in the triathlon will need to be prepared for the event with a swimsuit, bike shorts, racing shoes, sunglasses, water bottles to stay hydrated, a bike jersey or tri-top, sunscreen, a frame pump, socks, and more.
Those who register prior to Friday, July 22, will receive a tech event shirt. Food and beverages will be available at the finish line. Readers who would like to take part in the triathlon may register at http://www.lititzrec.com/special-events. Individuals who have questions may call 717-626-5096, ext. 239, or email SimonAbabou@lititzrec.com. Registration on the day of the event will be held from 7 to 7:30 p.m. at the Lititz Springs Pool, located adjacent to the rec center.
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