April Events                                         August Events

It is with great excitement that we are announcing the inaugural Abraham Lincoln Triathlon Series presented on April 19, 2008 and August 23, 2008 by The Petersburg Triathlon Group. While many races are offered throughout central Illinois, make no mistake, this is not the typical central Illinois terrain. We have HILLS. Events offered in the series provide unparalleled views of the city of Petersburg, while providing unprecedented access to Lincoln’s New Salem State Historic Site, the Jim Edgar Panther Creek State Park and the chance to race in the footsteps of Abraham Lincoln. In fact, you will be able to race in the same area where in 1831 Abraham Lincoln became the nations' first multisport athlete by accepting the challenge to run, wrestle and fight an opponent. While most triathletes believe Hawaii or California were the beginning of multisport, it has now been documented that central Illinois is the birthplace of multisport.

While we cannot prove that Mr. Lincoln was a triathlete by today’s definition of swim, bike and run, it is highly probable that Honest Abe swam in the Sangamon River, rode his horse through the surrounding woods and raced many opponents on the trails and hills in the village of New Salem. Now is your chance to participate in the evolution of multisport and become a part of history and the Lincoln Legacy. 

During the April event there are two distances and unique opportunities to swim in an indoor heated pool, ride on rolling rural prairie roads and run past century old architectural homes. The August event also offers two distances with a swim in a private lake, a bike ride through a beautiful yet challenging state park and the never before opportunity to run down the main street of the 1800's pioneer village where Lincoln roamed. The Series consists of two events on each day and is designed to welcome the new triathlete and challenge the seasoned veteran. The April event includes the Abe's Mini Triathlon and the Pioneer Sprint Triathlon. The August event includes the Stovepipe Sprint Triathlon and the Railsplitter Triathlon. All races are sanctioned by USA Triathlon and Athleticare is the title sponsor for the series. Hammer Nutrition products will be offered on the courses for all events. Both orange and lemon- lime HEED for hydration and Hammer gel are supplied at the aid stations.

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