Build Your Adventure
Home
Pedal, stroke, hustle: MK Triathlon to be held at Jack Lake on July 17

May 12, 2021

Author:  
Brandon Kieper

Source:  
Antigo Daily Journal

Athletes, get at that training. The MK Triathlon and Splash-n-Dash is coming back to Jack Lake on July 17.

Locals well know that Jack Lake is one of the most scenic places in Langlade County. That treasured venue will play host to a day of racing, and also great food and music to support the Antigo Swim Club.

If you have been on those trails, you already know. Miles of track wind through pristine forest to challenge those bold enough to attempt the run, swim, and bicycle legs of the triathlon. The weekend will include the offroad event, a swim/run duathlon and a children’s race. Athletes can compete in either a solo or team division.

The concept of the Splash-n-Dash was conjured up by Michelle Koss, who was tragically killed in a bicycling accident in 2016. Her goal was to build the event into the sole fundraiser for the Antigo Swim Club, to encourage a healthy dose of physical activity and bring our community together in a positive atmosphere.

Well done, Michelle. Your event is back.

The Splash-n-Dash has evolved over the years in pursuit of those goals, and all fingers are crossed that this July day will be blessed with that beautiful Northwoods weather.

As the website says: “We are proud to be a part of this tradition and we hope that you will join with us as we all pursue Michelle’s vision together.”

Michelle Arlen is one of the organizers of the event.

“This event is important to our club, community, and the memory of Michelle,” Arlen said. “Langlade County is such a beautiful area and why not show off some of the beauty it has to offer.

“The community as a whole is itching to be back to some normalcy, and running this event outdoors following the COVID guidelines is a huge part of getting life back to normal.”

The MK Triathlon consists of a 500-meter swim, 15-kilometer bike, and 5-kilometer run. The bike and run portions are off-road. All swim competitors must be at least 12 years of age.

The registration fee is $70 plus a small sign-up fee. That price will increase after May 31.

The Splash-n-Dash involves a 500-meter swim and a 5-kilometer run, off road. Registration costs $50 plus the slight fee, again increasing after May 31.

The youngsters are up first, with the children’s race prior to the adult events. Young racers will swim either 25 or 50 yards and run the outskirts of the lake about a half-mile.

Lodging for the event is available at several Antigo hotels, as well as the Jack Lake Campground. There are modern cabins for rent, back-country campsites and drive-up sites.

Awards will be presented immediately following the race.

For competitors, packet pick-up will be available at the Clara McKenna Aquatic Center next to Antigo High School on July 16 from 4:30-7 p.m., or at Jack Lake on race day starting at 7 a.m. Event organizers highly recommend grabbing those packets at the aquatic center on Friday.

The registration deadline to guarantee a race T-shirt is June 30.

Racers, be aware: Organizers will be tracking the weather in the days leading up to the race. But keep in mind this event has a no refund policy, which includes if the race is canceled due to an “act of God.”

For more information, send an email to mktriathalonWI@gmail.com, and check out the course on Google Maps.