Mountains of Midwest coming Saturday

By RICHARD JENKINS

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Ironwood Township — The inaugural Mountains of the Midwest winter triathlon is coming to Wolverine Nordic Ski Trails in Ironwood Township.

The race will start at 10 a.m. Saturday, and feature competitors skiing, fat-tire biking and snowshoeing.

The triathlon’s three legs will have competitors complete a 6k cross-country ski, with both classic or skate skiing allowed; followed by a 8k fat-bike race and a 5k snowshoe.

Justin Blake, one of the race’s organizers, said he got the idea for hosting the race after attending an event in Boulder Junction, Wis., and thinking this area had the potential for a more exciting course.

“Wolverine (is) super ‘hilly,’ it’s much more of a challenge and I thought it would be the perfect place to have a winter triathlon,” Blake said.

He said Wolverine has longer hills and longer climbs than some of the other trail systems in the area, giving competitors the opportunity to experience something relatively unique.

While the distances involved in the race means it may be geared more to the moderately skilled athletes, he doesn’t want to scare anyone away who thinks they’re up for the challenge.

“If you’re a beginner, you could very well do it too,” he said.

Blake said winter triathlons are becoming increasingly popular, especially as fat-tiring biking takes off in the region.

“Events like this are great for the area,” he said.

“I’m hoping this catches on,” he said, adding while the area is already recognized for its snowshoeing and skiing; and there wasn’t a reason fat biking couldn’t catch on like it has elsewhere in the region.

Those interested in participating in Saturday’s race can visit Wolverinenordic.com for more information, or register online at TandHtiming.com.

Online registration ends today, but competitors can also register at the Cold Iron Brewery from 4 to 7 p.m. Friday or at Wolverine beginning at 8 a.m. Saturday.