In the summer of 2020, organizers at the Lititz recCenter took a risk and held the annual triathlon in early August. Limiting the event to 175 participants, social distancing during the swim portion, and sanitizing the transition area were precautions taken for the event. "Last year, (the triathlon) was successful," said Simon Ababou, fitness director with the rec center. Calling it "the best event ever," Ababou said that both participants and spectators enjoyed the triathlon. "People were so happy (because they had been) bored at home," he explained.

The 2021 triathlon, which requires participants to swim 300 meters in the Lititz Springs outdoor pool, bike 15.8 miles through the farmland surrounding Lititz, and run 3.1 miles, will be held on Sunday, Aug. 8, starting at 8 a.m. As in the past, the event will be held at the Lititz recCenter, 301 W. Maple St., Lititz.

Organizers of the triathlon encourage participants to sign up in teams, so that families and friends can enjoy the event together. Teams made up of employees from local businesses or fellow church members are encouraged to participate. Ababou noted that employers are welcome to sponsor employees in the event. Teams may consist of up to three people as long as all events are completed. Ababou would especially like to see families participate as teams. "The goal is to provide time for family to bond by doing something together," he said, noting that participating as a team gives family members a chance to develop a healthy lifestyle. As an example, one parent could bike, another could run, and a child could take part in the swimming event. The minimum age to take part in the swimming portion is 12 if the youngster is part of a team and 16 otherwise.

Triathlon activities range from sprint distances to Ironman events. Novice triathletes may want to start with a sprint-type event like the Lititz recCenter triathlon. Proper training, commitment, and nutrition are essential to accomplishing a sprint distance before moving on to longer triathlons. Participants will need a bike, a swimsuit, and running shorts. A bike helmet is required. Goggles, swim caps, bike shoes, spare tire tubes and a pump, sunglasses, sunscreen, running shoes, and a water bottle are suggested. Ababou noted that potential participants should be training now for the August event.

Readers who would like to take part in the triathlon may register at http://www.lititzrec.com/special-events. Individuals who have questions may call 717-626-5096, ext. 0, or email SimonAbabou@lititzrec.com.