BASS LAKE – Preparations are under way now for the fourth annual Bass Lake Classic Triathlon on Saturday, May 31.
Athletes will begin arriving at The Pines Village at approximately 6 a.m., with the race set to begin at 7:30. Organizers anticipate an end-time of 2 p.m. and staging is expected to be torn down by 4:00.
Bass Lake has a long history in the sport of triathlon. The lake served as the site for the first-ever national championships in the sport in 1983, then returned in 1984.
The race continued in the 1990s until the event producer retired. The Bass Lake Classic Tri tradition was revived in 2011 by the Yosemite Sierra Visitors Bureau and Tucson Racing.
“Bass Lake really is a great location for a race. Newcomers to the sport have loved coming here while triathlon veterans know the history here and have enjoyed coming back,” said Jonathan Grinder, owner of Tucson Racing.
Over 500 athletes took part in the revived competition in 2013, and race organizers are expecting a sell-out this year. “We really do think we’ll hit our sell-out mark of 750 entrants,” said Rhonda Salisbury with the Yosemite Sierra Visitors Bureau.
While the venue could handle more, Salisbury said they’re looking for event quality over quantity of entrants. “We want to keep the number of competitors at a level where it’s not too crowded, so everyone has a good time,” she said.
Along with the Triathlon, there will be a 5K “Run for the Kids” walk/run, with proceeds to benefit local youth. This year, the Yosemite Gateway Association of Realtors will use the proceeds for mountain area high school scholarships.
Immediately following the race will be the Michelob Ultra Awards Party, with a bluegrass band and BBQ lunch put on by the Bass Lake Lions Club.
“The athletes really have fun at the party, as do the community members who come out to support the racers every year,” said Grinder.
It’s that community support, combined with the scenic beauty of the venue itself, that has helped give the Bass Lake Classic Triathlon the quick resurgence that it has enjoyed.
“The Bass Lake Classic Triathlon is the best race around. Perfect for beginners or seasoned athletes,” said one competitor on the race’s Facebook page.
For more information or for registration, visit www.BassLakeTri.com.
For race details, time and traffic controls, click here.
