CONTACT:  Julie Willmot
(609) 278-7137

TRENTON, N.J.—The New Jersey State Triathlon will be held Sunday, July 26 in Mercer County Park, bringing together 2,500 competitors and more than 6,500 spectators for the largest triathlon in the state.

Since the inception of the New Jersey State Triathlon in 2006, the number of competitors has more than doubled, with an average of about 600 athletes local to Mercer County. The race begins at 7:30 a.m. with opening remarks from County Executive Brian M. Hughes.

The New Jersey State Triathlon is quickly becoming one of the largest multisport events on the East Coast, attracting competitors from more than 38 states nationally, and includes even international participants.

CGI Racing—the force behind the event that also produces the Black Bear Triathlon, the North East Triathlon, and the Philadelphia Women’s Triathlon/Duathlon—in conjunction with Mercer County’s Sports and Entertainment Commission has enhanced this year’s triathlon event by creating a festival-style weekend, drawing in participants’ friends and family.

“Not only does an event like this showcase the many determined and inspiring athletes in our local community and beyond, but it highlights the great venues and recreational organizations Mercer County has available to facilitate such great community events,” said Hughes.

Spectators can listen to live music from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. in addition to face painting, sign making, and available “cheer gear” including cowbells, clappers, and more. The park and playground areas are also open to use.

The race generates an estimate of $500,000-plus dollars in economic impact over the race weekend from hotel stay costs, dining out in the local restaurants, and average per day spending.  This increase in revenue does not include the thousands of dollars acquired through entry fees of the triathletes, many of them local to the community.

"The Mercer County Sports and Entertainment Commission is thrilled to be partnering with CGI Racing to host New Jersey's State Triathlon,” said Mika Ryan, president of Mercer County Sports and Entertainment Commission. “This event will provide a memorable experience for the participating athletes as well as generate a tremendous economic impact on our community.”

For more information on this race and other CGI produced events, visit www.cgiracing.com.