14 Wing Triathlon delivers unforgettable race experience
Under perfect late-summer blue sky, streaked with wisps of cloud, the inaugural 14 Wing Triathlon took flight August 30, delivering a high-energy multisport spectacle that thrilled athletes and spectators alike. With 31 registrants from across Nova Scotia, the event proved to be a resounding success, blending military precision with community spirit and athletic grit.
Hosted at 14 Wing Greenwood, the race featured two formats: a Sprint Triathlon (750m swim, 20km bike, 5km run) and a Try-a-Tri (300m swim, 11km bike, 3km run), welcoming both seasoned competitors and first-time triathletes. The venue’s unique layout offered a fast, flat course as scenic as it is speedy, including a rare opportunity to cycle along the wing’s Taxiway Foxtrot flanked by static aircraft displays, giving the race a distinct Royal Canadian Air Force flavour.
“A truly unique experience – swimming in a warm pool to cycling on a flat taxiway, with aircraft to view in the vicinity; to running on a path paralleling a runway with the sun shining and calm winds. You don’t really appreciate the size of runways and taxiways until you run or cycle them!” said Major Yves Leblanc.
The swim took place in the base’s outdoor pool, where athletes were seeded into waves based on self-reported swim times. From there, they transitioned to the bike leg on the airfield, and finally hit the pavement on Ad Astra Way for the run. The flat terrain and cool morning temperatures, which gradually warmed to ideal racing conditions, made for fast times and happy athletes.
Results that soared
In the Sprint Triathlon, Dante Manchester of Dartmouth blazed through the course in 56:49, clinching first place overall with a blistering 41.9kph bike split and a 17:02 run. Jonathan Taylor of Bedford followed closely behind at 57:29, while Chris MacKenzie of Argyle Sound rounded out the top three.
On the women’s side, Morgan Gamborski of Lower Sackville led the pack with a time of 1:26:07, followed by Megan Hunt of Eastern Passage and Kirie Poirier of Antigonish.
The Try-a-Tri event was equally exciting, especially for newcomers. Kyle Wolfer of Greenwood took top honours with a time of 47:41, while Susan Faulkner of Grand Lake led the women’s field at 52:03. The event saw a wide range of ages, with participants from age 12 to over 70, showcasing the triathlon’s appeal across generations.
Community, camaraderie, commitment
The event wasn’t just about competition – it was about connection. Many participants were first-time triathletes, drawn to the Try-a-Tri’s shorter distances as a way to “get their toes wet.” The atmosphere was supportive and celebratory, with volunteers, military personnel, and PSP staff ensuring smooth operations and safety throughout.
With static aircraft displays and military volunteers, the event highlighted the best of 14 Wing’s capabilities, while fostering community engagement and fitness.
Organizers have already confirmed: the 14 Wing Triathlon will return in August 2026. With its unique venue, inclusive format and strong turnout, it’s poised to become a staple on Nova Scotia’s triathlon calendar.
“This race is a challenge for all-around fitness,” said MWO Andrew Grove. “And it’s only going to get better.”
Photos Master Corporal Dominic Ouellet, 14 Wing Imaging
