Weather, Just About Everything Perfect for Wolfman on Saturday
September 11, 2019
The weather - which had been iffy all week - cooperated and an outstanding day of competition and fun along the Wolf River was enjoyed Saturday at the 25th anniversary of the Wolfman Triathlon.
The event was created a quarter century ago to showcase the kayaking, biking and running opportunities along the scenic and challenging Wolf River in eastern Langlade County and it has never failed to encourage competitors, volunteers and those who come out to watch.
It has become a major economic driver for the region and also supports a legion of local volunteer organizations, who are each rewarded with checks, along with food and refreshments, for helping to supply the army of workers needed to make the event a success.
Headquartered at Garner Dam Boy Scout Camp, racers began with a rocky 3-mile class II whitewater section of the Wolf River, followed by a 13-mile mountain biking portion; and a 3 3/4 mile rugged trail run along the Wolf River.
Cyclist is Brady Sturm of Eagle getting the high five.
After racers compete, there was a traditional locally-prepared pig roast, awards presentation, and live music.
Overall winner was Nick Low of Crystal Lake with a time of 2:04:03, with the women's winning time posted by Rachel Tilley of Manawa, 2:41:37.
Top local finishers on the podium were Thom, Wegner and Renfro in female relay at 3:01:37.
While local competitors were off the podium for overall honors that has never been what the challenging Wolfman is about, and there were plenty of area competitors. They included:
- Adam Nicholson, Antigo, 2:15:39.
- Curt Parsons, Pickerel. 2:19:42.
- Corey Slominski, Antigo, 2:24:38.
- Eric Roller, Antigo, 2:29:26.
- Avery Jehnke, White Lake, 2:30:10.
- Patrick Filbrandt, Weston, 2:38:01.
- Brian Sharon, Antigo, 2:42:41.
- Dan Bastle, Pickerel, 2:32:10.
- Daniel Smith, Gleason, 2:46:57.
- Benjamin Dewing, Crandon, 3:08:23.
- Greg Eichelkraut, Gleason, 3:17:56.
- Lloyd Larson, White Lake, 3:24:11.
- Susan Slominski, Antigo, 3:30:14.
- George Bornemann, Wausau and Langlade, 4:22:43
- In tandem male, Josh Zalewski, Antigo, 2:24:22, and Jordan Zalewski, 2:30:46.
The volunteers this year included Langlade Area Mountain Bike Association, Antigo Bike and Ski Club, Antigo Swim Club, Elcho Cross-Country Ski Club, White Lake Area Historical Society. Antigo Wrestling, Langlade Country Sled Dog Club, Antigo High School Youth Bowling, Wolf River Volunteer Fire Department, Wolf River Chapter of Trout Unlimited, Northern Oconto County Trout Alliance, and Antigo Boy Scouts with additional assistance from the Langlade County Sheriff Department, Wisconsin Bike Patrol and Sierra Club River Touring.
Click here to view some of the many pictures taken during the Wolfman Triathlon.