I can now see why they say the Apple Triathlon is the most respected Olympic Distance triathlon in all of Canada, where even our world class OLYMPIC Athletes come to race at this event. Simon Whitfield, kyle Jones, Paul Tichelarr, Lauren Groves, Kathy Tremblay.
Karina Clark, 3 time world champion triathlete, said it best “Of the 30+ races I have done, including 3 World Championships, Kelowna remains my absolute favorite. The volunteers are second to none. They are all helpful, friendly, and just super!”
I have spent the last decade going from one kind of event to another. This by far was one of the most impressive events I have experienced.
I had the pleasure of experiencing this event from all points of view, as a volunteer, exposure to the amazing organizers and as a competitor. From the beginning to the end, the joyful experience will stay with me for all time.
From the first time I met Mike Hassard, one of the main volunteers, he was a true example of what it mean to be of service to all those that crosses his path.
Through Mike I had the pleasure of meeting Richard Montgomery, the president of the Apple Triathlon. With over 846 volunteers, 20+ races, sight of 5000 spectators, 1600 racers, Richard at no point, through the organization of the event or at the event it self, lost his well mannered and relaxed demeanor. With a million things to keep organized that weekend, he still took the time to give me some guidance on my race at the event. (Don’t let this grey haired man fool you, he is a true triathlete competitor at heart.) 
All that being said, if anyone has raced in the Okanagan then they have heard the name Randy Sparrow. Randy is the living legend known as the Race Director. Randy has the ability to keep all the above organized and making the event run like a well oiled machine.
Even Greg Peters from Tri-Canada mentiond a note about Randy: “You continue to do a fantastic job, and I have no idea how you can keep so much information about the event in your head and recall it so quickly.”
Triathletes are a unique group of people, they have tapped into their internal drive to push their limits, to study their bodies peak performance, to commit when others only talk, but what truly makes them special is their desire to help others succeed.
In my last half of the run, I was cramped and had lost too much salt leading to spasms in my legs. A competitor running beside me not only took the time to guide me from his years of experience but also helped me dig deep within myself and pacing me to the finish line.
The amazing staff from Kelowna Cycle who always take the time to guide me and share little secrets with me for race day preparation, thanks Tannille, and their encouraging words “just go do it and have fun”, thanks Mike.
One of my favorite moments was my first race ever. I had never set up a transition area before. As I was obviously fumbling my way through it an amazing girl came over and said “I can help you with this, both my parents are triathletes.” Yes, she was 11 years old and shared the secrets she had learned from her parents. I think she even passed me that day at the races.
I would like to take the time to thank all the volunteers, organizers, directors, sponsors and racers for showing me not only the love for this sport but also why the Apple Triathlon is the most respected in all of Canada.
Looking forward to experiencing the Penticton Ironman Canada this weekend. Good luck to all the racers.
Fred Sarkari
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