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32nd Annual Madison Triathlon Taking Place on Saturday, Sept. 9

The 32nd annual Madison Triathlon is taking place at the Surf Club starting at 7 a.m. on Saturday, Sept. 9. The Madison Triathlon is a yearly event that is run by the Madison Jaycees. It features more than 500 participants from throughout the state and generates thousands of dollars that go to local charities.

The Madison Triathlon is named after Dave Parcells, who was an active triathlete and also a member of the Jaycees. The event includes a 0.5-mile swim, 12.4-mile bike ride, and 3.1-mile run.

“The Madison Triathlon is special for many reasons,” said event co-chairperson Jason Corsello. “It’s a beautiful course, including a swim in the Long Island Sound and run along the Shoreline of Connecticut. It is diverse, and we host tri-athletes of all levels, including over 100 first-time triathletes. It’s also inspirational, with a number of para-triathletes returning for the sixth year.”

Corsello is the co-chair of the triathlon with Jake Israel, a former president of the Jaycees. Corsello said that local residents help out as volunteers at the event, including athletes from Daniel Hand High School. Corsello feels that this vast amount of community involvement adds to the spirit of the event, as well as the main objectives of the Jaycees.

“The Madison Jaycees is a local organization with a collective goal to promote the welfare of our communities across the Shoreline,” Corsello said. “Every year, we host events, such as the triathlon, and raise over $100,000 annually and distribute those dollars to both charities and individuals in need. We have strong support from our local businesses and sponsors.”

Much of the proceeds from this year’s triathlon will be donated to local soup kitchens and non-profit organizations along the shoreline. There will also be a raffle that includes a touring bike from Zane’s Cycles valued at over $2,000. The proceeds from the raffle will go to the Ben Callahan Foundation.

Corsello said the community aspect of the Madison Triathlon is one of the primary factors that drives people to participate. On a personal level, it’s heartwarming for Corsello to see people with disabilities compete at the event.

“The three Cs—competition, camaraderie, and course—are what the participants and spectators say that they love about the event,” said Corsello. “Each year, I look forward to the para-triathletes. They are truly inspirational.”