The Land
We acknowledge with deep gratitude that our triathlon takes place on the ancestral, unceded territory of the Syilx Okanagan Nation. We are humbled and privileged to swim, bike, and run on these beautiful lands that have been cared for and cherished by the Syilx people since time immemorial. Their enduring connection to the water, land, and community continues to inspire respect, balance, and stewardship in all who visit this region. We honor the Syilx Nation and express our sincere appreciation for the opportunity to gather and race on their traditional lands.
Race Founder - Richie Sheldon
Okanagan & Endurance Sport
Penticton and the Okanagan Valley have long been the epicenter of endurance sport in Canada — a place where athletes come to test their limits against nature’s finest backdrop. For decades, the region has hosted world-class triathlons, ultra races, and cycling events that have drawn competitors from around the globe. Its combination of warm lakes, challenging terrain, and breathtaking scenery has forged a community built on grit, passion, and perseverance. The spirit of endurance runs deep and the love of sport continues to inspire every generation that races through the valley.
Richie first encountered the brutality of Extreme Triathlon in the wilds of Patagonia with Patagonman. The grassroots style of sharing the race by interacting with friends or family, provides a whole new dimension to the experience.
After living in the Okanagan for a few years and the discontinuation of a few local endurance races, it was time to bring one of these epic challenges back to British Columbia. We are blessed with the perfect pristine location to bring a challenging yet stunning extreme triathlon that shows off the beauty of Western Canada.
Things to do around the race?
Whether you’re racing or supporting, there’s no shortage of things to do in Penticton and at Apex Mountain while soaking up the Okanagan sunshine. Spend a relaxing afternoon at one of Penticton’s beautiful beaches on Okanagan or Skaha Lake, rent a paddleboard, or float the famous Penticton Channel for a laid-back summer tradition. Explore local wineries, breweries, and farm-to-table restaurants which showcasing the region’s harvest season flavours. Wander through the Saturday Farmers’ Market downtown, take a scenic bike ride along the Kettle Valley Rail Trail, or hike the stunning views of Skaha Bluffs. For a mountain escape, head up to Apex Resort for hiking, mountain biking, and crisp alpine air.
What is the Ogopogo?
The Ogopogo, known in Syilx Okanagan teachings as n’ha-a-itk (pronounced n-ha-ha-eetk), is a sacred spirit being that lives in the waters of Lake Okanagan. For the Syilx people, n’ha-a-itk is not a “monster,” as often described in popular culture, but a powerful water spirit and protector connected to the natural balance of the valley. This being represents respect for the water and a reminder of the responsibilities humans have to live in harmony with the land and all living things. The stories of n’ha-a-itk have been shared by the Syilx people for generations and continue to hold deep cultural and spiritual significance today.
