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Grit and guts: Athletes take on scorching Island half triathlon in Saanich

Victoria’s Jackson Konkin wins overall in 4:15:43; Nanaimo’s Lisa Purzner top woman in 4:55:45

One of Canada’s most storied triathlon events returned on a scorching Sunday, July 13, as hundreds of local and national athletes took part in the Victoria Half at Saanich’s Elk/Beaver Lake.

Held for more than 25 years, the race features a one-loop swim in Elk Lake, a scenic bike ride through the Saanich Peninsula, and a two-loop run along the flat trails around Elk and Beaver Lakes.

This year, Victoria’s Jackson Konkin finished first overall, clocking in at 4:15:43. Nanaimo’s Lisa Purzner was the first woman to cross the finish line with a time of 4:55:45.

The event also included Olympic, sprint, duathlon, aquabike and relay categories. It has served as a national championship and qualifier in past years. From elite competitors to first-timers, everyone gave their all in this beloved fixture of the national triathlon circuit.

 



Olivier Laurin

About the Author: Olivier Laurin

I’m a bilingual multimedia journalist from Montréal who began my journalistic journey on Vancouver Island in 2023.
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