WINTER TRIATHLON
Winter triathlon is a winter spin on the triathlon event. In this case, the 3 events are running, mountain biking, and cross-country skiing - all performed on snow. Winter Triathlon world championship races have been held since 1997 under the aegis of the International Triathlon Union.The running section of the event is carried out over courses of hard-packed snow (usually ski trails). The distances range from around 3 to 5.5 miles. Contestants generally wear normal running shoes or spiked cross-country shoes.
Likewise, the mountain bike leg is over packed snow. Distances range from 6.2-9.3 miles. The equipment consists of standard mountain bikes though often with wide tires.
The final section of the winter triathlon, cross-country skiing, is competed over courses of 5-7.5 miles. Bother classic and freestyle skiing is permitted.
Most winter triathlon events comprise multiple laps of each leg. This makes it more spectator-friendly. The world championship also features a team relay race.
So far most of the winter triathlon races have been held in Europe. However, the 2002 series finale took place in Canmore, Canada. The United States has hosted several winter triathlons in the past decade, mainly the Colorado Rocky Mountains.
Winter triathlon is on a growing wave of popularity. The ITU hopes the event will become popular enough for the International Olympic Committee to include in the Winter Olympic Games.