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FAIRFIELD, Conn. Pascale Butcher still believes the Fairfield Triathlon will return. And although this year's race is canceled, she believes she has secured a venue for another event that women will embrace.
Butcher, owner of Trifitness in Fairfield, will conduct a triathlon and duathlon at Norwalk's Calf Pasture Beach on Aug. 28 beginning at 6:30 a.m. The triathlon will consist of a half-mile swim, 12-mile bike ride and 3.1-mile run. The duathlon will be a 1.5-mile run, a 12-mile bike ride and a 3.1-mile run. Women of all ages and abilities are encouraged to participate.
"I had noticed that some women's events are really big,'' Butcher said. "Some women are intimidated that it can be too competitive, especially if men are involved. They think it's not for them. Nothing against men really, but it's a different atmosphere with women only. You feel more at ease."
Butcher created the women-only event to make up for the loss of the Fairfield Triathlon, which was canceled earlier this year. Butcher tried to move the starting time to early in the morning but was rebuffed by Fairfield town officials. She hopes to try again with the event next year in Fairfield. In the meantime, the events at Calf Pasture will offer women a unique opportunity to compete solely against their peers.
"The competitive women can still compete,'' Butcher said. "The idea is to have women try it at least once. I'm hoping some daughters would like to do it with their moms. That way women try something for themselves."
Part of the proceeds will go to Team Brent to benefit directly the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute (via the Neuroblastoma Research Fund). Men will attend the event as volunteers to help support the women and direct the race.
"I've been thinking about it for a couple of years, and I thought we have to do it,'' Butcher said. "Norwalk is a great place for it. They're very accommodating. It's similar to the Mossman Sprint Triathlon. Women who don't want to swim can ride the bike. I think it will be a great event with a lot of potential for growth."
What do you think about the new races for women? Start the discussion below!
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