The Tri-Diva Tri triathlon is returning to Olds for its third year but race director Deanne Jabs said volunteers are needed to ensure plans stay on track.“The only way we can get the race to be successful is to have maybe about 75 volunteers and right now, I think we're at three,” Jabs said.Volunteers are needed for jobs such as sweeping, setup, pool lap counting, marshalling and cleanup, she said.Often, people who volunteer at the event end up signing up for triathlons themselves when they see what fun it is.“It's a great way of seeing what the sport is about,” she said.This year's race will take place on May 3, starting at the Town of Olds' Aquatic Centre.The Tri-Diva Tri triathlon is a women-only event that Jabs started to introduce the sport to women. She said it's beginner-friendly and the course includes a 250-metre swim, 11-kilometre bike ride and a 2.5-kilometre run.Participants come from all over Alberta and ages range from under 18 to over 60 years old.The triathlon is currently sold out, with 330 women participating. However, there will be seven more openings if those interested raise at least $100 for charity, Jabs said.That charity is MitoCanada, an organization that supports research into mitochondrial disease and supports Canadians living with it.Mitochondrial disease is a group of disorders that affect mitochondria, structures within cells responsible for creating energy from food and oxygen.The disease causes a myriad of symptoms, including stunting or regression of development and chronic fatigue.Last year, the triathlon raised $1,000 for the cause.Jabs is setting a $3,000 goal this year.There will also be a prize for the participant who raises the most money, most likely a bobsled ride for two down the track at Canada Olympic Park in Calgary.To get involved with Tri-Diva Tri, contact Jabs at [email protected]@olds.greatwest.ca
