» Experience The June Lake Triathlon

As I stood at the edge of crystal-clear June Lake, looking around at the massive mountains that surrounded it, I could hear the soft chatter of athletes around me and off in the distance the race announcer giving out instructions. I walked into the lake and the water started creeping in into my wetsuit. The water was chilly, but not uncomfortably cold. I put my swim cap and goggles on which managed to drown out most of the chatter from the athletes around me. I dove in, swam around for a minute or two and before I knew it, it was race time!

The June Lake Triathlon is not your typical run-of-the-mill triathlon. Every aspect of this race is unique. The swim takes place at beautiful June Lake, nestled in the cleavage of the Eastern Sierras at 7600′. Yes, 7600′! Swimming in June Lake is delightful treat compared to any other swim course in california. A great course for people who may be a bit apprehensive about swimming as you can stand up and touch the bottom for more than half of the course.

The bike course is brilliantly planned. Simple yet challenging. Roughly 16 miles of downhill riding combined with curvy mountain roads and topped off with a long 5ish mile climb at the end, this course is fast yet deceptively challenging. On the course you see several beautiful mountain lakes including June Lake, Silver Lake, Grant Lake, Gull Lake and even a little bit of Mono Lake off in the distance.

As described to me at the pre-race meeting, the race gets really fun on the run, and that is where you earn your finishers medal. Coming from a trail running background this 10k really was a “trail runner’s dream.”  The course is mostly trail and ranges from fire road to ridiculously steep and rocky single track (mostly single track). The views from the top of the run are nothing short of spectacular overlooking June Lake and Gull Lake. Just when you think you have run through it all you get a couple hundred yards of soft, deep sand to suck out any last ounce of energy you may have as you cross the finish line.

Presented by the High Sierra Triathlon Club, the June Lake Triathlon is one of the best run events I have ever participated in. Race volunteers and organizers were meticulous with the organization and execution of the event. The awards and medals were made by local artists. But what made this event truly unique was the community. The positive attitudes and friendly personalties that attract so many people to our sport filled the motels, restaurants, and bars (especially the Tiger Bar) adding to an already memorable weekend. If you are looking for a unique race experience, be sure to add the June Lake Triathlon to you race calendar for next year!