About the Norway Triathlon
A Triathlon is an athletic event that combines swimming, bicycle riding, and running. On July 18, 2008, at approximately 8:30 AM competitors will begin with a 0.62 mile swim on a triangular course on Lake Pennesseewassee from the public beach area on Route 118. Upon return to the beach, the swimmers will then mount their bikes for a 8.9 mile ride up 118 and the Greenwood Road to Nobles corner. Then turning up the hill and loop back to the Public Beach area to begin the 3.1 mile run along Route 117 and back to the Public Beach area to the finish. Some will compete in relays with different competitors doing each leg of the race. Racers of all abilities are encouraged to compete. After the race, there will be food, music and fun for family and friends. Elsewhere in Maine, there are several triathlons conducted throughout the Spring, Summer, and Fall. The Norway Tri will become one in a series of Maine triathlons.
The Purpose of the Norway Triathlon
The Oxford Hills and Norway area is in the beautiful lake and mountain region of south western Maine. The natural beauty of the region is a potentially valuable economic resource for a flourishing eco-tourism based economy. The annual Norway Tri will bring visitors to the region to experience this natural beauty. This will benefit the local businesses and economy. Proceeds from the race will go to the Western Foothills Land Trust, to be used to maintain and enhance the area’s natural resources through their conservation activities. The vision is a balance of economic development and the preservation of the natural beauty of the region.
One of the current projects of the Land Trust is to purchase and protect a 150 acre parcel overlooking Norway Lake known as the Roberts Farm Preserve. The goals of the Roberts Farm Preserve project are to permanently protect the rural viewscape to and from Lake Pennesseewassee, to manage and promote a healthy mixed woodland habitat on site, and to establish public non-motorized recreational trails for the community. By the summer of 2009, the Norway Triathlon’s foot race will be run on the Preserve’s trails.
The Norway Tri will also be an example of a healthy, active lifestyle. It will be an educational activity that promotes proper nutrition and exercise as a means to a happier lifestyle for local citizens and visitors. It will be a fun event for racers, family and friends.