In both an attempt to raise funds and provide a fitness outlet for area residents, the Maryville Aquatic Center will sponsor its second Annual MAC Mini-Triathlon Aug. 9.

Registration for the event started this week and will continue until July 31. The mini-triathlon will be a 400m swim, 10k bike and a 5k run. Participants can enter both individually or as a team, and categories will be women's, men's and team. The team fee is $75 and an individual fee is $30. Late registration (received after July 31) will be $85 for a team and $40 for an individual.

Last year's inaugural mini-tri raised $1,236 for much needed safety equipment including tubes, an AED machine and masks used for CPR at the Maryville Aquatic Center. All proceeds from the triathlon go toward improving the MAC.

Shelly Hersh, manager of the MAC and recreation coordinator for MPR, said triathlon committee members learned what worked and what didn't work at last year's event, but nonetheless agree it was successful.

"It went well, especially considering it was our first time," Hersh said.
Last year 40 volunteers worked all day to ensure a safe and enjoyable route for the 45 triathlon participants. 

Twenty six businesses and individuals sponsored last year's event.

Hersh anticipates the need for more volunteers this year, as she predicts a larger number of participants this year.

When determining what time of year to have the mini-triathlon, Hersh said late summer seemed to be the most appropriate time.

"At the beginning of the summer it's really busy with the area programs going on," she said. "And I wanted to give those people who didn't have access to training in a pool in the spring, the chance to use the MAC all summer to swim laps."

To register, go to the Maryville Community Center at 1407 N. Country Club Rd. or go to www.activityreg.com. From there click on the state of Missouri, and then the Maryville Parks and Recreation link. On the MPR Web site, there will be tabs on the left of the page with triathlon links.
Contact the Maryville Community Center at (660) 562-2923. Packets including a map, training plan and rules are available online or at the MCC.