Back Mountain Triathlon: A Celebration of Endurance and Community

In the heart of northeastern Pennsylvania, at the scenic Harveys Lake, the Back Mountain Triathlon unfolded with a display of sheer endurance and community spirit. This event, now in its second year, drew over 200 athletes who embraced the challenge of swimming, biking, and running through Luzerne County's picturesque landscapes.

Wendy Narcum, a local from Shavertown, shared insights into the crucial role of kayaks in the water segment, "When you're in the water, you're very disoriented. The kayak helps to guide the swimmers along the course. It’s very important and it helps the swimmers stay safe and stay on track." This statement not only highlights the logistical challenges of the triathlon but also the indispensable support of volunteers who ensure every athlete's safety.

The atmosphere was vibrant, especially early in the morning. Abby Jacobs, another Shavertown resident, remarked on the energy at the event, "It’s very upbeat, so as you can hear the music is definitely loud and pumped, especially at 6:00 a.m." This festive ambiance serves as a backdrop to the grueling physical challenge, providing a buoyant mood that uplifts both participants and spectators.

The course itself was a testament to the area's natural beauty and the community's commitment to the event. Tim Tyson, the Bike Course Coordinator, detailed the route: "Well once they leave the beach here, they head out Lakeside Drive, make a left onto route 415. Up to 29, into Noxen, through Noxen. Then they make a right onto Sardoni Hill, Buckweed Hollow Road, and that brings them straight back down to Lakeside Drive. The sprint will come straight in Lakeside and back into the school." This description not only maps out the challenging course but also encapsulates the expansive involvement of the community in facilitating this event.

David Bass, the Race Director and a former competitor in the Wilkes-Barre Triathlon, expressed his emotional connection to the event, "I was just sitting there, taking it all in, looking at the athletes, thinking about how proud I was of my committee. All these volunteers. I get emotional. I’ve stood on the other side on the speech as a competitor for the Wilkes-Barre triathlon and to see us, bring it back and have the community embrace it like this, yeah I get pretty emotional about it."

Lou Ciampi, a resident of Wyoming, humorously ranked his life's joys, placing the triathlon high on his list, "The only thing better in my life besides getting married would be football and then triathlons." This light-hearted comment underscores the deep passion and personal significance that such events hold for many.

Volunteer Sarah Williams touched on the broader impact of the triathlon, "Everybody gets so excited like it’s such a big deal. People that aren't normally into stuff like this come out to support like they know somebody or they’re just amazed by the people. I know the man who runs it, Dave Bass he’s a great guy, so it’s really just a positive impact for the community."

Echoing the sentiment of accessibility and encouragement, Bass added, "I hope it inspires a lot of people because it looks like it’s hard. But anybody can do it. And this is a great bucket list item if you think man, I want to try something, challenge myself, you can do this. It’s doable."

The event not only tested physical limits but also raised $20,000 for Back Mountain charities, illustrating the powerful intersection of community, challenge, and charity. This triathlon is more than just an athletic event; it's a celebration of community strength, the joy of personal achievement, and the profound impact of collective efforts.

#BackMountainTriathlon #NEPACommunityEvents

Source:

https://www.pahomepage.com/news/2nd-annual-back-mountain-triathlon-returns-to-nepa/