The stage is set for the third-annual Clermont Challenge at Lake Louisa State Park in Clermont on Saturday, March 9 and Sunday, March 10. The event will attract some of the world’s most renowned triathletes, all competing in the International Triathlon Union (ITU) Clermont Pan American Cup, which boasts a prize purse of $10,000. Some athletes participating in this event include Richard Murray (South Africa), Kyle Jones (Canada), Mario Mola (Spain), Jarrod Shoemaker (USA), Sarah Groff (USA) and Paula Findlay (Canada).
“We are proud to host a world-class triathlon event in Lake County,” said Adam Sumner, interim director of Lake County’s Economic Development & Tourism Department. “Lake County is continuing its tradition of being a terrific destination for athletes. The combination of great facilities including the Live Well Fitness Center (formerly known as the National Training Center), Lake Louisa State Park, the South Lake Trail and Waterfront Park, along with ample lodging and convenient restaurants, makes this a great place to visit and train.”
Along with the ITU Sarasota Pan American Cup, the Clermont Challenge will include two days of triathlon events. The other events include an Under-25 Elite Development Draft Legal Race, a Youth Formula One Race, and an Age Group non-draft race.
The event was founded by Jarrod Shoemaker, 2008 U.S. Olympian and USA Triathlon National Team member. The competition is one of the only sanctioned draft legal triathlons in the country.
“For the past couple years, I have been working to create a draft legal race for age groupers,” said Shoemaker. “There is no race like this in the United States and I am excited to bring this event to Florida. Draft legal racing is such a thrilling event to race and to watch.
“For the athlete it is constant effort and an exciting race experience. For the spectators, they will be able to constantly cheer on their friends and family.”
For more information or to learn how to get involved with the event, email Bill Burnett at [email protected] or visit www.draftlegalchallenge.com.
For more information about sporting events in Lake County, contact the Lake County Economic Development & Tourism Department at 352-343-3918 or email Adam Ashton, sports development coordinator with Lake County, at [email protected].
