By Staff
If you were driving in Howard Township this past Saturday, you probably noticed a lot of cones, police officers and people standing and sitting by the road.
These people gave their time to ensure the safety of everyone involved in the 24th annual Niles Triathlon and Duathlon and 5K Run which was held at Barron Lake and on the roads of Howard Township.
Over 255 athletes from throughout the Midwest came to Niles to participate in one of the oldest events in the Michigan Grand Prix series of triathlons.
The triathlon course is a one half-mile swim followed by a 21-one mile bicycle ride and a five-mile run.
The duathlon begins with a five-kilometer run and then joins the triathletes for the last two events. Several athletes chose to run only the five-kilometer run.
The Niles Triathlon and Duathlon is the major fund raising event of the Niles Noon Optimist Club. Profits from this event are used to support the many youth activities and community service projects conducted by the Niles Noon Optimist Club throughout the year.
This year a portion of the proceeds from the 5K Run are designated for the Childhood Cancer Campaign, which is currently Optimist International's primary focus program.
Thanks to everyone who was involved in another successful Triathlon and Duathlon.
We hope to see you next year!