Wrightsville Beach Sprint Triathlon sells out with more than 1,400 athletes
WRIGHTSVILLE BEACH, NC (WWAY) — More than 1,400 athletes are expected to compete in the 46th annual YMCA Wrightsville Beach Sprint Triathlon this weekend after the event sold out.
The YMCA of Southeastern North Carolina says the race is scheduled for Saturday, Sept. 26, and is expected to draw thousands of athletes, spectators and volunteers to the Wrightsville Beach area.
Organizers describe the event as the oldest active sprint triathlon on the East Coast.
Competitors will begin with a 1,200-meter point-to-point swim in Banks Channel before taking on an 11-mile bike ride across the drawbridge. The race concludes with a 5K run around the Loop at Wrightsville Beach.
The event includes both a traditional sprint triathlon and a youth triathlon.
The YMCA organizes the race in partnership with Set Up Events and Without Limits. Proceeds benefit the YMCA of Southeastern North Carolina’s Annual Campaign, which provides financial assistance for programs including child care, youth sports, swim lessons and YMCA memberships.
Organizers are also looking for additional volunteers because of this year’s turnout. Volunteer positions include assisting with water stations, distributing medals, helping in the transition area, directing athletes and assisting with setup and cleanup.
The race is also expected to impact traffic Saturday morning.
Residents and visitors should expect delays and parking changes in the Wrightsville Beach area and along Oleander and Airlie roads between 6:30 and 10:30 a.m.
Organizers say people living between Greenfield Loop Road and Oleander Drive should also expect delays. Law enforcement will be directing traffic, and motorists are encouraged to consider alternate routes or adjust their travel times.
