Race Info

Sunday, August 30, 2026

Lake Padden Park (west entrance near swimming beach)

The race will include a 800 meter Swim on Lake Padden, 9K mountain bike loop along the Lake Padden horse trails, and finishes with the classic 4.1k (2.6 mile) gravel loop trail around Lake Padden. Transition area will be on the grass between the parking lot and the swimming beach near the West side entrance to Lake Padden Park. This race has a challenging mountain bike course.

6:30 am – 8:15 am: Transition Area Open
6:30 am – 8:00 am: Packet Pickup
8:10 am: Pre-Race Meeting
8:30 am: Race Start
10:00 am: Bike Course Closed
11:30 am: Run Course Closed

Course Maps

Swim
Course

800 Meters / 875 Yards / 0.5 mile Swim

Clockwise swim, keeping buoys on your right. Self-seeding mass wave start.

View Map on Strava

9 km / 5.6 mile Bike

Exit to the east from transition onto the gravel path, watching out for pedestrians you will ride the gravel around the lake past the boat launch and playground and then past the Dog Park. You will enter into fun single-track. You will climb up into the “Expert Loop” that will drop you down on some sweet switchbacks. The trails eventually wind you back to the main Lake Padden gravel trail. Turning left onto the gravel, you will ride along all the gravel past the tennis courts on your way back to transition. Enjoy the ride!The course will be well marked with arrows and tape to guide you through.

View Map on Strava

Bike
Course

Run
Course

4.1 km / 2.6 miles Trail Run

Exit to the east from transition onto the gravel path, stay on the gravel path, keeping the lake on your right all the way around the lake. Always stay right as you run clockwise around the lake, if you take a turn off the gravel trail you went the wrong way.

View Map on Strava

FAQ

Do I need a wetsuit?

A wetsuit is not required.

Can I ride my gravel bicycle?

Yes, but this is a VERY challenging bike course, and we recommend a mountain bike. Regardless of bike choice, we highly recommend pre-riding the course in training.

What is the Lake Padden water temperature on race day?

The Lake Padden water temperature will likely be in the 68 - 74 degree range on race day.

How does the relay work?

Relay teams will exchange the timing chip inside the transition area

What if I just want to do one of the sports, like running?

That is ok, you will need to find others to form a relay team, they can do the swim and bike legs allowing you to do the run.

What is your refund policy?

Until July 1st we can issue a refund minus 15% (to cover credit card processing and administrative fees) or allow you to transfer your registration to the following year. No refunds or transfers after July 1st.

I’m not a USAT member, can I still race?

Yes, you can still race, USAT offers a one-day license and even better, it is included in your race entry, so you are covered!

Can I have my friend pickup my packet?

No, USAT rules do not allow this. You must present your ID when you pick up your own packet

Is drafting allowed?

Yes, USAT section 5.10 Position Fouls (Drafting) - “shall not apply to off-road triathlons and duathlons and shall be excluded from enforcement at those events.”

What time should I arrive?

Check-in and transition will be open 2 hours before the race starts. Plan according to your needs.

BellinghamOFFROAD triathlon

Sunday, August 30, 2026

Bellingham
OFFROAD
triathlon