Search PentictonNow
A record number of athletes are expected to take part in this weekend’s Peach Classic Triathlon in the wake of last Sunday’s tragedy at the Okanagan Granfondo.
Following the death of a cyclist in last weekend’s race, the annual triathlon is planning to implement additional safety measures to keep its roughly 800 participants safe on Sunday.
The one-day event will require a road closure on Lakeshore Drive in the morning and will see participants cycling and biking between Penticton and Naramata, with traffic control personnel along the route and signage at every entry point.
“Due to recent events, the City and event organizers have conducted a thorough review of the traffic management plan and have implemented additional precautionary measures to enhance/reinforce event safety,” stated a City of Penticton news release.
“Anyone driving in the area Sunday morning is advised to slow down, watch for flaggers and allow extra time, should traffic need to be stopped briefly.”
Among the increased precautionary measures are additional signs along the cycling route and additional motorcyclists to accompany the cyclists.
There will also be a lead car and a sweep vehicle.
All cyclists will be off the road by 10 am and drivers should use extreme caution as participants will be travelling up Vancouver Hill and along Naramata Road. Runners will also be along the roadside and along the Kettle Valley Railway (KVR) Trail.
Sections of Lakeshore Drive will be closed starting at 5:30 am and reopen in waves before being fully reopened by 11:15 am.
“Signs will be posted along the route to notify drivers about the road closures and areas where parking will be temporarily not allowed,” added a City of Penticton news release.
“Access to Lakeside Resort and Pier Water Sports will be available from Main Street.”
Supporters will be able to cheer on swimmers starting at 7 am from Rotary Park Beach and runners and cyclists from city roads and the KVR.