Buchanan Triathlon
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Buchanan Triathlon
The Buchanan Triathlon takes place in Botetourt County, Virginia, and uses the James River for its paddling section. The course runs through town streets, follows rolling country roads for the bike, and finishes with a river paddle ending at a boat ramp.
Distances for the event:
- 2 miles run through town streets into the park
- 13 miles bike on rolling country roads with some climbs
- 5 miles paddle on the James River from Springwood boat landing to Twin River Outfitters
The run route finishes by cutting through grass into the park for the final 100 meters and passes the start and finish area before the bike transition. The transition area provides space for bikes and equipment but does not provide bike racks.
The bike route ends at the Springwood boat landing upstream from Buchanan. A GPX file of the bike route is available from the organizer on request. The paddle is a downstream river segment; kayak rentals are available from Twin River Outfitters and include a life jacket, paddle, and kayak staging so kayaks can be waiting at the kayak transition.
The event is scheduled for September 12, 2026 and is held rain or shine. If river levels reach six feet or higher, the paddling portion will be omitted and the event will become a duathlon with the cycling leg lengthened by approximately four miles. Registration fees vary by date. Race shirts, post-race food, awards for top finishers, and a finisher medal are part of the event offerings. Refunds are not offered, though registration transfers may be possible. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
