NORTH CAPE MAY – An estimated 1,750 athletes and their families will be in Lower Township for the third annual Escape the Cape Triathlon Sunday, June 14.
Lower Township’s bay, beaches and roadways will be the backdrop to the race and Delaware River and Bay Authority’s Cape May-Lewes Ferry Terminal, located in Lower Township will once again host this unique endurance event, created by DelMo Sports.
Thousands of spectators will line the race course, from the starting point at the ferry to the finish line on the terminal’s boardwalk.
“The Township of Lower, the government officials, the police department, public works personnel and the community at large is the number one reason this event is successful,” stated Stephen DelMonte in a release, the race’s creator and Founder/CEO of DelMoSports Inc. “We have an extreme amount of gratitude to Lower Township for all the support.”
DelMonte said that many Escape the Cape participants hold Lower Township in an especially high regard because it was the place that they decided to embark on a life-changing endurance race.
“A lot of people on that boat are making a life changing decision and they are doing it in Lower Township,” he said.
He noted that many Lower Township residents along the triathlon’s course have a prime seat to cheer on the athletes, many make signs and some give out water.
“I know they appreciate all that support,” he said.
The athletes will begin the USA Triathlon sanctioned event by leaping 10-feet from the MV Twin Capes ferry vessel into the Delaware Bay and swimming ashore, continues with a bike course on scenic roadways and ends with a run to the finish line. The event will consist of three separate races taking place simultaneously. The Sprint Triathlon consists of a .35-mile swim, 10–mile bike, and 5k run. The International Triathlon will consist of a one-mile swim, 20-mile bike and five-mile run, and the International Aquabike consisting of a one-mile swim and 20-mile bike.
The event brings also brings an economic boost to the area noted manager Jim Ridgway.
“The race brings people to the area that stay at local accommodations, eat at local restaurants, shop at local stores and see all the great things that the township has to offer,” Ridgway said. “Plus any services that the township provides, we are reimbursed for.”
How You Can Help
Even if you aren’t ready to take a jump from the ferry or attempt a 5k run, you can still be a part of Escape the Cape event by volunteering. Responsibilities include placing directional signs, assisting athletes, handing out t-shirts, helping with check-in and award ceremonies, food and drink setup, clean up and more.
For more information, visit escapethecape.com.
For Lower Township road closures and detours for ‘Escape the Cape’ Triathlon, go to: http://goo.gl/gyU74F.