Surf ‘n Turf perfect for true fitness test

Surf ‘n Turf competitors will compete in running, cycling, canoeing and swimming events over 60 km of terrain spanning the Quinte West community on June 7. Above, Gwen Barker in competition in the bike portion.- Contact file photo

By Ross Lees
Anyone wishing to give themselves a true physical challenge will be taking part in this year’s Surf and Turf Challenge at CFB Trenton June 7.

Open to everyone, this competition is an eight-leg cross country fitness challenge involving running, cycling, canoeing and swimming over 60 km of terrain spanning the Quinte West community. Participant involvement includes: single competitors, or Tinmen; team pairings, or Tinmates and teams consisting of an eight person race crew.

The race is designed to demonstrate the importance of camaraderie, community involvement and friendship while supporting military members and their families.

Organizers this year hope to see the largest turnout in the event’s 26-year history. They are hoping for at least 750 competitors, hundreds of spectators and teams from across Canada.

“We are improving on the event from last year,” noted event spokesperson Capt. Pierre-Luc Verreault. “We have changed some of the transition to ensure a better flow and intersection signs will be clearer to avoid any confusion.”
At the same time, organizers have increased the length of the canoe/kayak leg of the competition by one kilometre so that it now goes around the Trent Bridge on Highway 2. They have also enhanced the cross country run to make it a true 5 km competition.
Another goal of this year’s competition is to strengthen community ties, said Capt. Verreault. “We want to make this a real community gathering event and strengthen our ties with the local businesses and employers.”

As always, funds raised go to assist the Military Family Resource Centre (MFRC) at CFB Trenton. The Trenton MFRC provides services and resources that support the well-being of military families serving at 8 Wing/CFB Trenton. Military families includes all military, regular force or reservist, and their parents and close relatives.

The race has grown each year of its existence. Unique to CFB Trenton, this race will also be open to the general public.
For more information on the Relay, including the various legs of the course, visit www.cfbtrenton.com.