Duathlon Returning to Wrentham for 17th Straight Year

The Wrentham Lions is hosting the 17th annual Wrentham Duathlon on April 14 at the Crackerbarrel Fairgrounds.

Registration is continuing, and all proceeds from the registration fees will help support the Wrentham Lions’ charitable concerns as well as fund research for a cure to blindness.

The Lions also help organize the fall Wrentham Halloween Duathlon, which also supports charitable efforts in the area.

The Wrentham Lions Club has put the race on for 17 years with the help of Fiske Independent Race Management, a race organization company. The race usually attracts at least 300 participants.

The race, which involves both running and cycling in a team relay style, will start at 8:30 a.m.

Competitors will start by running three miles around the perimeter of the fairgroundsproperty; then bike 11 miles on streets in Wrentham, Franklin, and Norfolk; and finish by running another two miles bisecting the middle of the fairgrounds.

Awards will be designated by age in increments of five years as well as weight classes. The first three teams to finish will be awarded. A random award may also be given out at the race director’s discretion.

Volunteers for checkpoints and team support are needed. Volunteers receive a tech race shirt and post race food. Email Wendy at wendy@firm-racing.com to volunteer. 

Click here to register.

Here’s some tips from F.I.R.M. for getting to the race.

1. Arrive early and go directly to registration to pick up your race packet.
2. Immediately take the timing chip from your race packet, and put it on your left ankle.
3. Look at the number on your race packet, and find that number on the racks in the transition area. This is the rack where you set up your gear. Memorize its location.
4. Attach the larger race number to your running singlet or race belt. Attach the smaller number on your bike. (A stapler works well for that task).
5. Locate where you will enter the transition area from the bike course, and the where you will exit the transition area to start the second run segment. Practice running in from the bike course and running out onto the run course.
6. Visit the restrooms.
7. Warm up prior to the start of the race by going for an easy run on the run course.
8. Line up at the start line according to your expected running pace. Those at the front will head out in the five minute mile pace range; those in the middle will head out in the eight minute mile pace range. Position yourself accordingly.
9. Smile for the cameras. It's nice to have some action photos for remembering the day. 
10. Have fun and enjoy the experience!