An annual tradition returns to Athabasca this weekend with the Billy Loutit Despatch Triathlon events.
On Saturday the ‘Kids Of Steel’ will hit the pool, and then the pavement, to show they have the stuff that famed mailrunner Billy Loutit once did.
Then the next day, it will be the adults turn to take on the challenging event. Some will be attempting to shave off some time from last year’s race, while other brave souls will be taking part in their very first triathlon.
Much respect is due to those who challenge themselves in physical competitions such as this. A triathlon is no minor challenge, and those who come to this small town expecting a comparatively ‘small’ race are often surprised at the demanding course that organizers set out for them.
Regardless of who crosses the finish line first this weekend, credit is due to all the athletes who will push their limits on our streets. If you’re out watching the event, be sure to cheer them on as they pass.
And if you are physically active, or would like to be, think about trying out the event for yourself next year. With the right determination and preparation, you might surprise yourself.
Another annual event that will make its return on this busy weekend is the Boyle Rodeo.
Cowboys and cowgirls will flood the village and the surrounding area for the event, both for the competition itself and for the variety of special events that will go along with it.
For those competing, they will have a chance to show their skills at classic events like saddle bronc, bare back, team roping and more.
Those with a little smaller of an adventurous streak can get some vicarious thrills by watching the brave men and women do their thing at the rodeo.
Last year’s event had the biggest turnout in its history, thanks in no small part to the appearance of popular band Nazareth. This year another musical icon will perform, in the form of Foreigner singer Lou Gramm.
There will be plenty of other highlights as well, like a steak dinner, pancake breakfast, sumo suit wrestling, and the much anticipated demolition derby.
And if either of those events doesn’t happen to be your style, you can head out to the Athabasca Municipal Airport for the annual Fly-In Barbeque.
If you’re a plane enthusiast young or old, you’re sure to get a kick out of the event, with pilots literally dropping out of the sky to visit and talk with locals.
Summer is in full swing and this weekend is jam packed with options for people who want to get out and enjoy their community in a unique way.
