First-place Junior Relay 18U stand at the podium holding their winning plaques at the Great American Triathlon on Saturday July 19. Photo by Rick Sloan

RANCHO CORDOVA, CA (MPG) – The fifth Great American Triathlon took place July 19 along the American River Parkway where athletes laced up their running shoes, mounted their bikes and launched their kayaks for a cause.

Billed as the region’s premier summertime outdoor sporting event, the triathlon follows the historic route of Eppie’s Great Race, which began in 1974 and earned a reputation as the “World’s Oldest Triathlon.” Revived and rebranded in 2019 as the Great American Triathlon, the event remains as challenging and community-driven as ever.

Set against the natural backdrop of the American River Parkway, competitors tested their strength and stamina through a 5.8-mile run, 12.5-mile bike ride and a 6.1-mile paddle with categories for individuals, teams and racers of all experience levels.

Competitors tested their strength and stamina through a 5.8-mile run, 12.5-mile bike ride and a 6.1-mile paddle. Photo by Rick Sloan

“Training side by side with my fiancé and crossing the finish line together made the Great American Triathlon an unforgettable experience. It was even more special to complete it along the American River, right in our own beautiful backyard,” said Samantha Sloan, a triathlon participant.

But what sets this event apart goes beyond the finish line. At its core, the Great American Triathlon is a charitable celebration of community and conservation, channeling its proceeds into local causes through the nonprofit Reach Your Potential (RYP).

Proceeds from the 2025 race will benefit several key nonprofit organizations, including the American River Parkway Foundation, Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) of Placer County and Community Against Sexual Harm (CASH).

A sea of colorful kayaks lines the ground at the fifth annual Great American Triathlon.  Photo by Rick Sloan

“Taking on the Great American Triathlon was more than just a personal challenge; it was a chance to raise awareness and support for the American River Parkway Foundation,” said Chance Manzanares, another participant. “We're proud to give back to the place that gave us so many miles of training and memories.”

The American River Parkway Foundation works year-round to preserve the nearly 5,000 acres of land that make up the parkway, home to rich ecosystems, miles of trails and the very route that athletes traverse each July. Current projects include habitat restoration, trail maintenance, clean-up efforts and addressing urgent concerns such as wildfire risks and water quality.

Also benefiting is CASA of Placer County, whose volunteer advocates provide stability, support and a voice in the courtroom for children impacted by abuse and neglect.

Chance Manzanares and Samantha Sloan from Rancho Cordova approach the finish line. Photo by Rick Sloan

Community Against Sexual Harm, or CASH, was formed in 2008 by a coalition of law enforcement officers, professors, survivors and Oak Park residents to combat exploitation and trafficking. It offers a non-judgmental safe space, access to basic needs and long-term support for women leaving the life of commercial sexual exploitation.

Registration will open soon for the sixth annual Great American Triathlon next July 18, according to the website. For more information and race results, visit https://www.greatamericantriathlon.com/.