The Beginner Triathlon is the second race in the nine part Big Blue Race Series this year and will take place Saturday, Oct. 3. There will be a raffle held at the event with prizes such as free rentals from the USU Outdoor Recreation Center and free food passes from the Junction. Free breakfast is also served for all those involved with the triathlon.

The Big Blue Race Series is a year long event consisting of a variety of races, all accumulating into the “Balanced Man Triathlon” to be held in April 2010. The races include running, triathlon –running, swimming, biking – snowshoeing, cross-country relays and more, as stated from the USU school Web site.

“Getting involved in the race series is a good way to stay in shape and win good prizes,” said Ryan Avilia, race director of the Big Blue Race Series.

There is an activity for everyone, from snowshoeing to biking to swimming, it will be a time for athletes to show off their talents, Ryan said.

The male and female winners of the series will receive $300 scholarships each as the grand prize. Points will be given based on how many races the contestants competes in and how well they do in each race. At the end of the year, the points are tallied up to determine the winners for the scholarships.

The money for the scholarship was donated by the USU Campus Recreation department. It was donated in hopes that the money will help inspire students and the community to have a more active lifestyle.

It’s a great way to get active and get money while doing it, Campus Recreation stated.

The scholarships are not the only thing given away at the races, each event will have different prizes and free food for those involved. The Outdoor Recreation Center and USU Dining Services are sponsoring the series and have been working hard to make sure the races will be a success.

Anyone can compete in the triathlon. To participate, it is $5 for students and $10 for nonstudents.

– sari.e.montrone@aggiemail.usu.edu