_The 2021 Breakup Triathlon:

In 2021 we celebrate the tenth anniversary of the Breakup Triathlon. The race was named after Alaska's spring when the ice and snow accumulated over the winter months start to melt away. As the ice thaws, the days become longer, temperatures grow warmer, and ice over the rivers begins to give way to the currents of the Chena River and surrounding rivers. The ice breaks up into chunks of all different shapes and sizes and floats lazily downstream.

 This is the first sprint triathlon of the season for Fairbanks, Alaska and the only sprint triathlon within a 250 mile radius in the month of May. The Breakup Tri offers a unique opportunity to give the sport of triathlon a try without being intimidated or overwhelmed by the number of participants. The race will consist of a 500 yard swim, 13.1 mile bike, and 3.1 mile run through and around the beautiful University of Alaska Fairbanks campus.  There is a 99-participant limit and it sells out every year, so be sure to register early to ensure a spot.

The mission of The Breakup Tri is to introduce the sport of triathlon to those who are looking for a new challenge, a new way to lose weight, cross training, or to see what the sport is all about.  Another incentive for the Breakup Tri is that it doesn't include an open water swim which deters some people from ever entering a triathlon.

Event details and schedule

Registration opens Feb. 1 and will close when 99 participants have registered, which usually happens within 7 days.  Those who sign up after the race is full will be placed on a waitlist and can get a race slot as participants cancel.  Those on a waitlist will not be charged until their registration is confirmed.

 Entry fees are listed below.  USA Triathlon membership is also required. If you are not a USAT member you will need to buy either a one-day membership pass ($15 adult; no one-day option if under 17) or an annual pass ($50 adult/$10 if under 17) to participate.  Minimum age to participate is 16 years as of 12/31/21.  Note:  it is not necessary to be an Active member to register.

 Registration Prices

Feb 1 – April 23  $40

April 24 – 29 $60

April 30  $80

Registration closes at 12:00 pm AST on April 30

A T-shirt and swim cap will be provided with your registration fee. Race packet pick-up will be Friday, April 30 from 5 pm to 7 pm at the Patty Center.

The race will start at 12 p.m. in hopes of warmer weather.  If the 10 am temperature is below 39 degrees at the UAF International Arctic Research Center, UAF North Campus Data, we will modify the race, but it will go on as scheduled, regardless of what Mother Nature may bring. We are Alaskans so we can adapt to anything!

 All swim lanes will be limited to two swimmers per lane.

 Awards will be given to the top three men and women.