Triathlon benefits Armstrong County Habitat for Humanity

If the Crooked Creek Olympic & Sprint Triathlon had a theme song, it could be "There's A Whole Lot of Sweatin' Going On."

This is sweat that doesn't end at the finish line on race day Sept. 11.

It continues with the energy expanded by volunteers of Armstrong County Habitat for Humanity building housing for needy with the proceeds.

And it is seen in the partner families, beneficiaries of that housing, contributing "sweat equity hours" in helping construct both their own house and to help others in need, whether it is a fund-raising project, family selection, site acquisition or planning.

"Habitat for Humanity helps good hard-working families get into decent housing which they can't afford on their own. It's not a giveaway, said Carl Bromley, race director and a Habitat volunteer.

Homes are paid for with zero-percent mortgages; donations for one project are recycled into helping another family in need.

That's why the eighth annual triathlon won't end when participants cross the finish line.

"For the competitors, it is both camaraderie and physical challenge, competing against friends and newcomers to the event," Bromley says. "For volunteers, it is another chance to help. For Armstrong Habitat for Humanity, this is their largest fund-raiser. It has helped five families into decent housing so far. We need to find a lot on which we can build or a house to rehabilitate for number six."

The Olympic competition consists of a 0.9-mile swim, 24.8-mile bike race and 6.2-mile run. The Sprint division is a 0.45-mile swim, 11.5-mile bike and 3.1-mile run (1/2 Olympic course).

The events, starting at 9 a.m., cover parts of Manor, Kittanning, Burrell and Bethel townships.

Details, including registration, course map, dowloadable entry application and other information are available at cc.localforall.com or by calling 724-548-5716 or 724-545-4905