Summer is a great time of year to exercise outdoors and participate in sporting events. Hempstead Town's triathlon provides a great opportunity to enjoy our beautiful beaches, compete in a fun-spirited athletic event and meet friends and neighbors.

Celebrating its 20th anniversary, the Town of Hempstead Triathlon is a much-anticipated annual athletic event. An exciting contest of running, swimming and biking, the 2003 Triathlon is set to start at 8 a.m. on Saturday, September 6 in Town Park Point Lookout.

Entry applications are now available and can be obtained through the town Parks Department at 292-9000, ext. 219 or by sending a self-addressed, stamped envelope to: Town of Hempstead Triathlon, Department of Parks and Recreation, 200 North Franklin Street, Hempstead, New York 11550.. .

Set along the beautiful beachfront at Town Park Point Lookout, the compelling contest begins with a hearty three-quarter mile ocean swim. After emerging from the surf, competitors set off on a ten-mile bike ride through the streets of Point Lookout and adjacent to Lido Beach. The final leg of the Triathlon is a five-mile run to the finish line at Town Park.

In addition to a commemorative tee shirt and a special race souvenir for each participant, the Triathlon will present awards to the top three male and female finishers in each of ten age categories. Trophies will be presented to the overall men's and women's champions.

Registration applications must be returned prior to the Wednesday, August 27 deadline. The triathlon is limited to 300 contestants. Registration fees, set at $35 for a town resident (18-59 years of age), $50 for a non resident and $17.50 for a senior town resident (ages 60 and over), are payable by check or money order made out to the Town of Hempstead.

Additional event and registration information may be obtained by visiting the town website at www.TOH.LI.

The town hopes to celebrate the Triathlon's 20th anniversary by presenting a thrilling race with 300 athletes and the chance for a record-breaking performance.. All town residents are invited to share the excitement and cheer on the competitors.