First Responders "Bring in the Backup" Triathlon
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First Responders "Bring in the Backup" Triathlon
The First Responders "Bring in the Backup" Triathlon takes place Saturday, July 25, 2026, at the Swensrud Park swimming pool in Northwood, Iowa. The event recognizes branches of the military, firefighters, nurses, EMS, dispatchers, corrections, and law enforcement. First responders will start the race, followed by other participants who act as backup. Participants do not have to be first responders.
The event program includes multiple race formats held around the Northwood pool and local roads. The swim occurs at the Northwood pool, the bike course uses public highways with rolling hills for most of the route, and the 5k run is mostly flat with one gradual hill.
Distances
- Sprint Triathlon: 150 meter swim, 10.4 mile bike, 5k run
- Duathlon: 1.5 mile run, 10.4 mile bike, 5k run
- Aquabike: 250 meter swim, 10.4 mile bike
- Relay: sprint distances split among two or three teammates
Entry fees include race entry, a race t shirt, a race medal, timing, some prizes, and participant refreshments. A t shirt is provided to athletes who register on or before July 16, 2026. Proceeds will be donated to the Worth County Sheriff’s Office, Northwood Fire and Rescue Department, and the Future First Responders Scholarship for Northwood-Kensett students. The event also offers an optional donation process and will honor two first responder families. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
