700 athletes participate in Escape the Cape triathlon
More than 700 athletes participated in the second annual Escape the Cape triathlon in Onset on Saturday.
The race, organized by Norwood-based company Max Performance, sold out to participants more than a month ago.
"People are saying it's one of their favorite races," said race director Maura Richmond, adding that many of the athletes stayed in town and visited local businesses.
Race director Tim Richmond said he'd like the event to continue annually. Escape the Cape attracted roughly 200 more participants this year than it did last.
"We're just excited," said Richmond. "It's been a great turnout."
Escape the Cape features a 1/3-mile swim, 10-mile bike, and 3.1-mile run with views of Onset Bay, Little Harbor Beach, and the East River.
Kevin Mulgrew placed first in the race with a time of 52:28. The female winner was Aubrey Cook with 58:05.
Wareham resident Donna Simmons, 43, who participated in the race for the second time, finished with a time of 1:43:40. Simmons was just coming off of her first run in the Boston Marathon, and noted that though her overall time didn't improve, she improved her time on the run.
"I had a good time," Simmons said. "I like doing that [race]. ... It's a nice area. I love Onset!"
(Are you a Wareham resident who participated in the Escape the Cape triathlon? Tell us how you did! E-mail jaime@warehamweek.com.)
The Gleason Family YMCA and the Friends of the Wareham Community Pathway will benefit from a portion of the race's proceeds.
In addition to Max Performance staff, about 60 local volunteers helped out with the event.