Chelan, Washington – The Lake Chelan Chamber of Commerce, Board of Directors has decided to coordinate a community wide program to welcome Tri-athletes to Lake Chelan regardless of the status of the triathlons. 

On June 21st the Board said no to an agreement with World Endurance Sports to provide staffing and support for the My First, My Next and Half Ironman Triathlons scheduled between July 8 and July 19, 2006.  Since June 21st the Chamber Board and staff have been investigating options to provide a good experience for the people visiting the Lake Chelan area for the triathlons.  Dan Hodge, Executive Director, Lake Chelan Chamber of Commerce said “The Chamber Board is concerned about the reaction of participants when they find out the events organized by World Endurance Sports may not happen.   The Chamber will be coordinating a community wide program to welcome the Tri-athletes to the Lake Chelan community.” 

The Chamber is organizing a special ‘Lake Chelan Fun Book’ for registered participants that will include special discounts for stores, restaurants and attractions.  There will also be information on informal self-directed bike rides that that go along the north shore and south shore of Lake Chelan.  The Chamber will be working with local bike groups to showcase the Echo Valley Mountain bike trails for the Tri-athletes.    The Chamber is planning a fun run for July 8th and July 15th if the World Endurance Sports triathlons do not occur on those dates.

The Chamber will be working to contact Triathlon participants to inform them of the status of the triathlon and what the community is doing to provide interesting activities.   There are several activities in Lake Chelan in mid July including First Friday – July 7th, Family Fest – July 8th, Bach Fest July 8th through 15th, the Riverwalk Concert with Alice Stuart – July 21st and Chelan Rodeo July 21st and 22nd.

The Chamber is posting information regarding the status of the Triathlons on the Chamber website www.lakechelan.com.  If people are interested in helping plan and organize the Triathlon events or have questions they can contact Dan or Jaye at the Chamber office, 509-682-3503.