Besides ignoring the cold, Jenn Annett enjoyed the first series race for Splash N Dash.
“It was nice to do something this time of the year,” said Annett, who finished third in the 2014 Valley First Challenge Penticton. “It was a little cold but it was really good.”
Annett needed just 23 minutes, 34 seconds to win the 750 metre swim and three kilometre run distance event and was pretty happy about being the first to cross the finish line behind the Penticton Community Centre.
“We’ll see how the next three go,” said Annett. “I think it’s awesome. I think Shelie (Best) did a really good job or organizing it. Hopefully we will get a few more people (24 people participated) out for next time.”
Annett liked the format, especially the swim, identical to what she did in the indoor triathlon, which will not be held this year. Asked about running in the cold weather, Annett said she didn’t think about it.
“The first two laps not too bad,” said she while enjoying a warm coffee. “The last lap my lungs started to freeze.”
Lisa Spalding also loved the event. While not being a good swimmer, she said it was good for her to participate in and added it’s great for kids.
“Nice to come and watch them,” said Spalding.
She didn’t feel the cold conditions as much, as she was warm following the swim.
“I expected it to be colder,” she said.
Spalding signed up after seeing the poster and said it looked fun. It also gives her something else.
“A goal to keep me pushing my fitness,” said Spalding, who liked the atmosphere with the people. “It was a really good event.”
Finishing second was Mike Ellis, Brad Lee, third, Jenny Ayers fourth and Scott McMillian rounded out the top five. The next race is Dec. 7. To register online, enter the course number 39649 for Dec.7, 39650 for Jan.18 and 39651 for Feb.15. Registration must be completed at least one week prior to the race.
Kids are $12 per race, adults $17, a family of three $38 and add $6 for additional family. To sign up for the series, a child is $40, adult $60 and $120 for a family of three. $4 addition for added family.
For more information, check www.penticton.ca/splash or Shelie Best at 250-490-2437.