The Origins of Triathlons
Triathlons have a long history dating back to the late 1960s. The San Diego Track Club sponsored the initial event, consisting of a ten-kilometer run, an eight-kilometer cycle, and a 500-meter swim. The event gained popularity in the United States and eventually provided the basis for modern-day triathlons. Triathlons were first regarded as a type of friendly cross-training. Although the actual distances were too short for most people, the sport grew in popularity in America. It was a popular sport among joggers in the 1970s, largely thanks to the success of 1972 Olympic gold medalist Frank Shorter. Jack Johnstone, a San Diego Track Club member at the time, felt his fitness level to be average. He was a member of his college's All-American Swim Team in addition to his athletic ability. He eventually came across the Dave Pain Birthday Biathlon; an event organized to honor the legendary San Diego hero. Triathlons gained widespread appeal in the early 1980s. The Hawaii Ironman was c...