The Root River Triathlon is a “doable”, non-swimming triathlon set in Southeast Minnesota's Root River valley in scenic Bluff Country. Registraton is now open for individuals and teams.

The first part of the race consists of a 6.8 mile traject on the Root River. The start is at the mining area on the north side of the Root River Bridge(just before you enter the town of Houston on Highway 76) and the race goes DOWN RIVER (Easy !!!)to Mound Prairie. Here there will be a welcoming committee of Boy Scouts who will help you ashore so you can go to your bike.
Leave the landing of your canoe or kayak to the scouts. They know what to do to get you out of the canoe and safely on dry land !

When you are ashore don't forget to cross the mat so your time can be recorded. (If you miss the mat, your canoeing time will not be recorded.)
After you have put on your helmet and jumped on your bike, you turn left/ north on County Road 25 towards Houston. Please beware of other traffic like cars and farming machinery. You will engage a smooth paved road with some challenging hills. At the end of County Road 9 turn left on Highway 76 and cross the bridge over the Root River. (For your safety pay attention and follow instructions of local law enforcement) Then turn right onto the levy and go to the bike/ transition and start running. (Do not forget to cross the two mats)
The run goes first over the levy. At the end of the trail over the levy turn left and cross Highway 16. (There will be volunteers to guide you.) Follow the arrows on the road towards Houston. Pay attention to the directions of the volunteers in the city especially when crossing Highway 76 (two times!!)
At the end of the run make sure you give your chip timer to the volunteer. We will be charged $ 30.00 for every missing chip. (And we will know who did not hand it in!!)

Are there restrictions or regulations on what kind of canoe/kayak, bike, or paddle I can use?
No, you may use any type of paddle, canoe or kayak, bike, tandem,you like.
However, remember that our motto is "Olympic"; Taking part is more important than winning. !!!!
(Pierre, Baron de Coubertin. Founder of the "modern" Olympics.)

Do I have to wear a life jacket while I am in my canoe/kayak?
Yes, all participants will be required to wear a US Coast Guard-approved personal flotation device while on the river.(If your kayak or canoe capsizes and you fall in the water, you don't have the time to put on a life vest!!!). A life vest will at least keep your head above the water and will help you to get to the shore or will give the assistance boats time to get to you and pull you out.
There will be two boats to assist you if you unexpectedly may fall into the water.