Triathlon head steps down

Photo: Wayne Moore - Castanet File Photo

Richard Montgomery (l) and Fred Steele prior to the 2014 Apple Triathlon

Richard Montgomery is calling it a career.

After 15 years at the helm of the Kelowna Apple Triathlon, Montgomery has announced he will step down after this year's event.

During his decade and a half tenure as president, Montgomery has seen the triathlon host six national championships and go from approximately 300 athletes to upwards of 1,800.

Montgomery says he is proud of the work that has been done to grow the event.

“I have worked with thousands of athletes and volunteers who inspire me every year,” said Montgomery.

"I take pride in knowing I have been one of the members of a group that has brought millions of dollars in economic benefit to our community as well as encouraging people to live a healthy, active life through participation in sport.”

Before he steps down, Montgomery said this year’s Apple must still go on – and he has just one parting wish: that everyone who has ever thought about it, or hasn’t had a chance to yet, volunteer to help make this year’s 33rd annual Apple, the best one ever.

Click here to volunteer.

This year's Apple Triathlon is set for Aug. 22 and 23.

The junior elite, sprint challenge relay, Try a Tri and youth races will all take place on the 22nd. The 12- and 13-year-old race and 14- and 15-year-old race are both Western Canadian Youth Championship events.

The sprint distance and the main Olympic distance triathlons for able bodied and paratriathletes will take place on the 23rd.

Click here to register for one of the races or to get more information on this year's triathlon.