The east side of the Hamilton was bustling with swimmers, bicyclers and runners on Saturday, and in many cases, it was the same person doing all three events. The scene was the third annual Bitterroot Classic Triathlon. The event featured racers from two to 70 years of age with grandmas and grandpas racing alongside youngsters and seasoned triathlon competitors. But no matter what the age or ability, the smiles and encouragement along the way were fantastic and the accolades at the finish line was the same for everyone.

“The Bitterroot Classic Triathlon is not just a race, it is a family event,” commented Amy James-Linton, spokesperson for the Bitterroot Classic Triathlon committee. “We could not even count the numbers of families racing this year or the activities taking place at the Bitterroot Aquatic Center for all to enjoy.”

The event, a fund raiser for the Ronald McDonald House in Missoula, is sponsored by many Bitterroot businesses and not only raises awareness for that charity but also promotes health and exercise for all ages. With more than 300 participants this year, the Classic has grown steadily in three years. The course consists of swimming 15 laps for 750 yards at the Bitterroot Aquatic Center, bicycling 20 kilometers and then finishing with a 5K foot race. Although many were individual participants who did all three legs of the race, there were several teams whose members did one or two of the legs.

Although many of the racers have been competing at one or more of these sports throughout their lives, there are those who have taken the sport up later in life. Claudia Wagenfehr of Stevensville is one such athlete. She finished the course in 2:15:24 and finished fourth in the Women’s 55-60 division. This was her second time competing in the Classic and she was pleased with her effort.

An event like the Classic doesn’t just happen. Over 100 volunteers help with tasks from fixing bikes to directing traffic and writing down times.

Monica LaBarge, 1st place winner of the women’s elite race with a time of 1:10:20, expressed her gratitude and summed up the exciting day. “It is fun, well organized and for a great cause! I really want to thank the race committee for making this event a reality.”

Complete results of the Bitterroot Classic Triathlon will be posted on its website at www.bitterrootclassictriathlon.com later this week.

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