Chelanathon to debut in Manson, reviving triathlon tradition

MANSON - Chelanathon prepares to launch on Sept. 6 in Manson.

Founded and financed by Jeff Crosby, owner of Mill Bay Marine and Storage, the event is designed to revive the spirit of the former Chelanman triathlon while expanding its reach.

“We’re really excited about putting on this event for local businesses in the Chelan Valley area,” Crosby said. “Chelanman did a great job, and it got shut down due to COVID, and they never brought it back. We thought, well, maybe we can bring back that type of weekend. That’s how the Chelanathon got created.”

The race has already drawn nearly 500 participants in its first year. Athletes can choose between Olympic and sprint distances, or take part in a relay. The Olympic course includes a swim of just under a mile, a 24-mile bike ride, and a 6.2-mile run. The sprint features a half-mile swim, 12-mile bike, and 3.1-mile run.

“We're really excited because Wapato Point has allowed us to put the run course through Wapato Point, which is a private development,” Crosby said. “12 Tribes has been an awesome sponsor, allowing racers to park in their parking lot, and we're just really excited about the excitement of people signing up.”

About half of the participants have registered for the sprint and half for the Olympic distance. The race will provide T-shirts and finishing medals, and organizers are still seeking volunteers.

A unique feature of the event is an underwater swim line in Lake Chelan, created with heavy anchors to guide swimmers along the pristine course.

“Since Lake Chelan is so beautiful and clean and pristine, they’ll be able to see this orange swim line underneath the water,” Crosby said.

The event has received strong support from the Chelan and Manson Chambers of Commerce, local businesses, and volunteers. Crosby said the race is expected to bring athletes, families, and visitors to the area, benefiting local tourism and commerce.

“It’s our way of supporting the local businesses in the Manson Chelan area as well,” Crosby said. “It’s really a way for us to help promote and really encourage the local businesses that have taken a risk to open their business.”

Proceeds from the Chelanathon will benefit local high school programs, particularly those providing volunteers. Discounts are also available for military members and first responders. Registration remains open until the day before the event.

The courses highlight the natural beauty of the region, with the swim beginning at Old Mill Swim Park, the bike course winding past wineries and lakes, and the run circling Wapato Point and finishing in downtown Manson.

“I've done multiple Ironmans, I mean, close to 100 triathlons myself and this will be one of the most beautiful courses I've ever participated in,” Crosby said. “You really can't find a much more beautiful place for it.”

With strong local backing and a focus on community, organizers hope the Chelanathon will grow into a lasting tradition in the Chelan Valley.

Quinn Propst: 206-923-8706 or quinn@ward.media