The umpteenth annual Black Hills Triathlon, a staple in Pacific NW, will not take place this September - not a victim of the economy; but because of a reaction by a 2009 participant to the unawares transgression of a non-participant vehicle.
This is a perfect example of how an up-your-ass adrenaline fueled I'm-too-important-with-having-fun-here-so-get-outta-my-way attitude can ruin it for the rest of us. The sad part is Mr (or Ms.) too-important probably doesn't even realize who he (or she) is. If the race director knows - they should name names.
A statement from course director Jon Atherton of AA Sports:
"In 2009 an older couple entered this very busy park and stopped to read an informational sign just inside the main gate. A participant who was returning to the park near the end of the bike segment of the race was forced to slow down and go around the vehicle. While passing the stopped vehicle, the participant shouted a series of expletives at the driver who was not even aware of the cyclist's presence - all of which transpired right in front of the Park Ranger. The result – the event can happen ONLY if the Transition Zone can be moved to the small grassy area at the park entrance, which is simply not feasible. This course modification would have made the venue disjointed and would degrade the quality and safety of the event. We apologize for any inconvenience this may have caused the athletes aiming to participate in this year's event."
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