We’ve Got You Covered!
Now Updated for the 2024 Season
Pre-Covid the kayak triathlon racing scene was exploding. Unfortunately not all the races survived but several of the most established did. The iconic M22 Challenge, is by far the biggest in Northern Michigan, but there are some others that fly under the radar but still offer an amazing racing experience.
The surfski is well proven to be the ultimate triathlon kayak. It is known around the world as the fastest human powered watercraft and the versatility is unmatched. The surfski requires an equally matched paddle, which is commonly known as the wing padde. The wing is designed to maximize the speed of the boat and leverage the power of the full body. This paddle is designed to work optimally when the paddler is engaging their legs, core, and upper back and paddling with a rotation based movement.
At TC SURFSKI we specialize in making sure you get the right boat/paddle setup and the guidance to go fast and be safe. Check out this blog for a detailed write up on choosing the right boat specifically for kayak triathlons. By itself, the boat and wing paddle will improve your time over a traditional kayak. But getting the most out of your paddling experience will require a combination of self study and lessons from an experienced professional. Paddling is very much like swimming and cross country skiing, it is a technique oriented sport.
Below is a list of 6 different events all offering their own unique experience and opportunity to explore the stunning beauty of Michigan’s geography through three different view points: paddling, biking, and running.
June 8th: M22 Challenge, Glen Arbor MI
The one that started it all. Billed as “America’s Most Beautiful Race” a 2.25 mile run, 17 mile bike, and 2.25 mile paddle that has become a right of passage into summer for multi-sport athletes. Registration opens March 1st and sells out quick.
June 21-23: Paddle45 3 Day Paddle Festival, Suttons Bay MI
This race is on it’s way to becoming the premier Northern Michigan paddle event of the summer. New this year will be a 10 mile point to point (downwind if possible) race on West Bay.
July 21st: Indian River Kayak-Bike Biathlon, Indian River, MI
A 2.25 mile paddle followed by a 11.7 mile bike. The Indian River Biathlon is fast and fun. 2024 will mark the 17th consecutive year this race has raised funds for the community. 100% of race fees are donated.
August 10th: Rapa Nui Paddle/Run/Paddle, Traverse City MI
The Rapa Nui is unique, challenging, and downright fun. Consisting of a 3 mile paddle, 2 mile run around Power Island, and 3 mile paddle back to the start. This is truly a one-of-a-kind race experience
Aug 11th: Ludington Lighthouse, Ludington MI
A 3 Disciplines Race, the Ludington Lighthouse has been a long standing triathlon now offering a 2k Kayak / 20k Bike / 5k Run event in downtown Ludginton along the spectacular shores of Lake Michigan
September 7th: Sunrise Side, East Tawas MI
Featuring a 2 mile paddle, 20k bike, and 5k run, there may be no better way to experience sunrise on the east side of the state.
