The Return of the Triathlon: The 16th Annual Tri Community Tri is Right Around the Corner

By Jon Johnson

PIMA – Do you like to swim, bike, or run? Sign up now for the 16th annual Tri Community Tri, presented by Mt. Graham Regional Medical Center, to conquer all three and take home this year’s bragging rights!

*Jon Johnson File Photo/Gila Herald: Tri Community Tri organizers Brian and Angela Paull have been organizing the event for the past decade. This picture was taken during the 2018 race.*

Race directors Brian and Angela Paull have been guiding the volunteer-run, family-friendly event since 2016. As a recognized 501(c)(3) non-profit, all proceeds from the event go right back into race upkeep for future years, with remaining funds donated directly back into the local community to promote health and fitness. All donations are tax-deductible, allowing every participant to give back while chasing their athletic goals.

Organizers are also seeking community volunteers to help with the event. Volunteer spots are open to assist at the Pima Pool, help with water stations, and manage equipment setup and teardown. Sign up for these spots here and get those service credit hours!

Race Categories & Distance Options

Held in the quaint town of Pima in Southeastern Arizona, racers benefit from quiet streets with minimal traffic and scenic rolling hills. All events kick off at the Pima Pool, located at 321 S. 100 East, Pima.

*Jon Johnson Photo/Gila Herald: Graham County Attorney L. Scott Bennett makes the transition from the swim to the bike during the 14th annual Tri Community Tri in 2024.*

Sprint Triathlon: Starts with a 425-yard swim in the Pima Pool, followed by a scenic 15-mile bike ride through rolling rural hills where wildlife is often spotted, and concludes with a 5K (3.1-mile) run meandering through Pima’s charming neighborhoods.
Super Sprint Triathlon: Designed for those looking for a shorter distance, featuring a 125-yard swim, a 7-mile bike ride, and a 1.5-mile run.
Relay Sprint: Lets teams of two or three athletes split the swim, bike, and run legs.
Kids Triathlon: Tailored specifically for young athletes to encourage healthy, active lifestyles. Consists of a 75-yard swim, a 1.2-mile bike ride, and a 0.5-mile run.

Medals will be awarded 3-deep (1st, 2nd, and 3rd place) to overall male and female winners, as well as the top three finishers in each 5-year age bracket for the Sprint, Super Sprint, and Kids divisions (medals for the Kids Triathlon are reserved for participants under 15).