Athletes face triathlon challenge at Suttle Lake

More than 100 athletes from at least nine different states will challenge each other -- and Mother Nature -- at Suttle Lake in the Sisters High Cascades Off Road Triathlon on Saturday, August 21, at 10 a.m.

The event consists of a 750-yard swim in Suttle Lake with a 12 to 14-mile mountain bike ride up and around surrounding hills and a six-mile trail run.

The event can be undertaken individually or as a two- or three-person relay team. There are still slots available in both categories, according to race organizers.

To register go to www.sistershighcascadesort.com or go directly to www.signmeupsports.com.

The event is the last race this year of the 47 races held across the United States as part of the Nissan Xterra USA Championship Series.

Athletes accumulate points heading into the Nissan Xterra National Championship held in Lake Tahoe.

In the women's race, top Xterra pro Jamie Whitmore from California will be a leading contender.

According to organizers, along with the pros, this event will have athletes of all levels including numerous first timers and novices.