New Welland Long Course

I'm thinking something in the olympic distance. They probably want to focus more on the Barrelman event instead of having 2 half distances in the same area.

Neil, here is the answer.

Unfortunately the Welland numbers have decreased significantly in the past 3 years. From well over 500 in 2013 to less than 400 in 2015. This, even though athletes told us on race day that they loved the race and all post-race surveys indicated the same. It seems that the lure of the 70.3 events is too great for us to compete. Very simply, we cannot produce races and lose money, otherwise there would be no series. For some you might not remember in the 80's and 90's that Muskoka was the biggest race of the Ontario season and was a 2k/55k/15k. What we hope we have done is brought back a great race distance (yes, same as Kingston) that is still a big challenge and can also be used as a tune-up for those doing a 70.3 later in the year.......and yes, that means we hope to see you at Barrelman if a half is in your plans.

All we can ask is, consider supporting local independent races.

Edited by John Salt 2015-11-27 6:50 AM

I've done Welland 3 or 4 times over the last decade and it remains one of my favorite venues. Anyone who is looking for a fun and fast long course should have this race on their radar.

Mark, The best part of the 2016 addition is the swim and Transition will be at the International Flawater Centre, about 2k from the existing arena site. No more long run up from the swim, grandstand seating for spectators and lots of parking. See you in June!

...and the best part for me - it's only 3 kms from my house so I can just ride my bike there and it'll serve as my warmup.