Despite the cold Buffalo weather, Western New York is a great place to participate in triathlons.  With some of the greatest fresh water lakes in the world within a few hours travel, there are plenty of great races to participate in throughout the summer.  Check back soon for a downloadable training guide for the competitive triathlete.

Here are four great races recommended by the staff at Healthy Buffalo:

A Tri In The Buff:

What’s the deal: A great race to kick off the summer, great weather, a fast flat bike course, and it is only 20 minutes south of Buffalo.  The race is run by Score-This!!! as part of their triathlon series.  They put on a great, professionally done race.

Where: Evangola State Park

When: First Saturday in July

Info: score-this.com

Shoreline Triathlon:

What’s the deal: Unlike the other triathlons listed on y2t.e80.myftpupload.com that have three different races going on simultaneously (a beginner, sprint, and intermediate distance) the Shoreline Triathlon is just a single race.  This makes for a great competitive atmosphere because it is more head-to-head, rather than having all different people racing in different races at the same time.  It is also has a bit longer bike and run course than your traditional Sprint distance race.

Where: Hamlin Beach State Park

When: Third week in July

Info: yellowjacketracing.com

Cayuga Lake Triathlon:

What’s the deal: A great race in beautiful Taughannock Falls State Park.  The Cayuga Lake Triathlon has one of the most challenging bike courses in the area with some steep hills that will challenge even the best cyclists.  The race finishes with a very scenic run by Taughannock Falls.  The Finger Lakes is a great venue for a race and it makes for an excellent weekend.

Where: Taughannock Falls State Park

When: First Sunday in August

Info: ithacatriathlonclub.org

Summer Sizzler:

What’s the deal: A great short race for amateurs and beginners.  More experienced triathletes may want to do the race F-1 style, where after you complete the entire course once, you go back and do it again.

Where: Beaver Island State Park

When: First Saturday in August

Info: score-this.com