The Turtleman Triathlon Committee has sadly come to the unanimous decision to place the Turtleman on hold for 2012.
Three factors (among others) were present when our committee brought the event back to life over a dozen years ago that are not with us now - a nice park with a nice beach, and nice water for swimming. Currently the park is undergoing major reconstruction (what it will look like in August is uncertain), there is virtually no beach (efforts to add sand were thwarted by thin ice, preventing trucks to deliver and spread additional sand), and the water level remains low with a continued drought in the long-range forecast.
We've been honored as "athletes' favorite" three times, but the last three years have been downers - storms in 2009, wading through mud in 2010, and an unpopular duathlon in 2011. Less than ideal conditions would only add to a growing negative reputation. In addition, wading through mud creates a significant safety concern.
We plan to meet again in the Fall to discuss plans for 2013. We really want to keep Minnesota's oldest triathlon alive, and believe this is the most prudent decision for 2012.
Thanks
Gene Holen