Opening ceremonies to honor veterans of all branches of military
Northwest Indiana will be hosting the 30th anniversary of the “world’s fastest triathlon” on Sunday, June 2. Leon’s Triathlon, a nationally broadcasted event, will allow participants to bike, swim and run their way through Northwest Indiana. Beginning on the Fourth of July, millions of households across the nation may watch the event on Comcast SportsNet.
Last year’s race brought over 750 triathletes from around the nation to the region to compete in the race. During Demo Day on Saturday, June 1, attendees will have the opportunity to try gear from triathlon product manufacturers. The interactive race expo will have various vendors and products including wet suits, bikes and shoes used by professional triathletes.
“Saturday is important because it drives that idea of destination and active lifestyle,” said Leon Wolek, founder of Leon’s Triathlon.
Demo Day, a free public event, is from 10 a.m. until 5 p.m. and will showcase a variety of active lifestyle sports and products in addition to the triathlon gear. Paddle boards will be featured and available for test rides, as wells as kayaks, canoes and paddle boats. Attendees will enjoy food and entertainment, including Chicago-based band Board of Governors from noon until 1 p.m., a beer garden, and educational opportunities with professional athletes discussing their training, gear and nutrition.
The event will also host an equipment drive supporting Tri-Masters, a not-for-profit that empowers at-risk children through triathlons in order to teach life lessons.
Opening ceremonies, beginning at 7:30 a.m. on Sunday, June 2, will include a full military ceremony honoring veterans from all branches through a series of special events. The Garrison Flag, a cooperative flag that travels throughout the region, will be present and held by military veterans from local chapters. A 21-gun salute will be performed in addition to a performance by the military choir. Additionally, the Lima Lima Flight Team will be performing a fly over, weather permitting.
An unprecedented amount of cameras will be used throughout race weekend to highlight opening ceremonies and to capture the action. The event will be premiered on the Fourth of July on Comcast SportsNet. Check local listings for airing times.
Leon’s Triathlon is an Olympic distance race beginning and ending at Wolf Lake Park, including a .9 mile swim, 24.6 mile biking portion and a 6.2 mile running portion. For more information on Leon’s Triathlon, or to register, visit www.leonstriathlon.com.
