The aquathlon event at Challenge Penticton saw a local competitor home the top prize.

Jeff Symonds was the first to cross the finish line, taking home first place in the event, which includes a one-kilometre swim and a five-kilometre run.

This year's Challenge Penticton, which spans from Wednesday to Sunday rather than the usual one-day event, is acting as both the national championship and qualifier for the ITU Multisport World Championship next summer.

That means Symonds is lined up to take on the world's top athletes in at least one event at the world championship next year, which is also slated to be in Penticton.

Symonds will also be taking part in Challenge Penticton's pro mens race Sunday morning.

Photo: Dustin Godfrey