Emmett's Most Excellent Triathlon

Come Tri with Us! One of Idaho's Best Triathlons...

Established in 2001 by local businessman and Ironman, Ken Runyun, Emmett's Most Excellent Triathlon has grown to be one of the best races of its kind in Idaho. Held annually on the first Saturday in August, it is a national championship qualifier with some of the best athletes in the west participating each year.

The tranquil valley of Emmett, Idaho is transformed in to a unique and beautiful race route. Truly a community event, racers will be cheered on and greeted all along the race way. Over 150 community volunteers help to welcome, organize and support this event.

The race, now boasting over 400 entrants, begins at Black Canyon Reservoir. Swimmers take buses from town to the start area. 

The next leg is a bicycle ride through the canyon and along the roads on Emmett's verdant farming bench area. The views are spectacular and roads are well manned to assure riders stay on course. At the end of the bike race, participants ride down in to town for the switch at Emmett's Railroad Station and Blaser Park.

Along the roads and at Blaser Park, race fans and families gather here to cheer on the athletes. Clapping, cheering and signs everywhere encourage the participants and create an atmosphere of fun.

The transition area is well-organized by class and easy to manage. Many athletes devise tricks to find their running shoes more easily by attaching 'markers' or other unique items.

Once their shoes are changed and bikes are parked, athletes embark on the third and final leg of the race. 

The starts at Blaser Park. The runners leave 'town' to the west taking a short run through one of Emmett's old neighborhoods. The course then takes two laps around the Gem Island Sports Complex.

Along the run, there are plenty of enthusiastic aid station volunteers offer water, power drinks and enery gel. The Rotary Club of Emmett Aid Station provides runners with a welcome water spritz or a full-on dousing for those who want it.

The finish line at Blaser Park is a welcome sight for runners as they cross the line one by one. 

Afterwards, there is an awards ceremony  and lots of free food for participants. Prize money and swag is over $3,000 for this up and coming race.

A kid's event, the 'Splash and Dash' was added in 2007 for future triathletes to get their 'tri' or to just have fun. It is held on the Friday before the official 'Most Excellent' tri and is put on by the Gem County Recreation District.

For more information, go to the Emmett's Most Excellent Triathlon official website link HERE. You can also contact the Gem County Recreation Distirct (208) 365-5748 or the Gem County Chamber of Commerce (208) 365-3485.

To view additional photos of Emmett's Most Excellent Triathlon 2008, click HERE.