Nakusp Elementary triathlon a yearly tradition of fun and activity

The weather was perfect for a swim, bike and a run on Sept. 14, perfect for the NES Triathlon.

“As you can see we had 78 students involved but it takes a whole community to support this event,” said Brenda McQuair, one of the NES Triathlon organizers that makes it happen. Also getting the race going were over two dozen parents and a handful of staff members, as well as more than 20 NSS students who marshalled along the way.

Seven years ago, Dorothy Bekker, Frances Swan and Rhonda Palmer started the triathlon tradition, and since then other parents have stepped in to make sure the day continues each year.

This year there were 26 teams competing in the 75 meter swim, 5 km bike and 2 km run. Each team consists of three participants who each take on a leg of the race. The triathlon is a popular event at NES, McQuair told the Arrow Lakes News, and anticipated even more when the weather is good.

“This event is an exciting start to our school year,” she said. “We must hold it as soon as school reconvenes as Mrs. Rhonda Palmer’s pool is used for the swimming portion, and we need to get make use of it before the temperature drops. As soon as the first day back to school starts the kids are hyped up about the triathlon and are looking for team mates rights off the start of the school year.”

The excitement builds, she continued, and culminates in the cheering of teams, parents and NES staff members as the participants cross the finish line.