UCare Tri-Loppet

UCare City of Lakes Tri-Loppet

Ingrid Remak

This summer, the Loppet Foundation will host the UCare Tri-Loppet Summer Festival - an all day outdoor event showcasing silent sports in Minneapolis.   “This event highlights the best of what Minneapolis has to offer - urban trails!  What other city could you paddle, trail run and mountain bike through all within view of the city’s skyline,” said Event Director Mike Erickson.  

The festival takes place on June 29th, 2013.  The day begins with the Tri-Loppet Triathlon.  Over 300 boats assemble on Lake Calhoun with racers paddling five miles through five city lakes before hitting three miles wooded trails in Theodore Wirth Park, and finish by peddling eight miles on mixed single track and varied urban terrain.  Participants can compete in individual or team categories (special team categories include Family and Corporate) making this a great event for both competitive and recreational athletes.

The finish-line lands racers in the heart of the Tri-Loppet festival which kicks off at 10:00am.  The afternoon features the Minnesota Canoe Association (MCA) Paddle Sprints, the Minnesota Orienteering Club (MNOC) Orienteering Competition, and a Kubb tournament - a Swedish lawn game where teams of two or more toss wooden blocks at targets.  

For those who want just a taste of these summer activities - there will be a smorgasbord of “Tri-its”  - opportunities for attendees to experience paddling, slacklining, nature hikes, a short orienteering course, a mountain bike skills course and an adventure run.  Those not comfortable with the full Tri-Loppet race can participate in the smaller REI Minne-Tri-Loppet - a modified version of the full triathlon.  In addition, sponsors and vendors will be on hand, and food trucks will keep participants nourished and fed.  Come out for the race and stay for the afternoon.  Kids as well as adults will enjoy the fun and challenging events.  

Tri-it coupons!  There will be a limited number of coupons available for a free “Tri-it Passport”.  You can pick up these coupons at Venture North Bike, Walk and Coffee, or two weeks prior to the event at your neighborhood community center including Harrison, Folwell, North Commons, and Farview parks.

Bringing back urban trails usage has been the focus of the Loppet Foundation, an organization dedicated to providing opportunities and creating passion for year-round outdoor activities and adventures in the Minneapolis area, especially among inner-city youth.  The Foundation runs everything from Loppet Nordic Racing (LNR) high level cross country ski training programs for all ages to community based elementary and middle school ski programs, winter and summer camps for youth,  and year round community events celebrating silent sports.  To learn more about the Loppet Foundation, please visit www.loppet.org.