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Staging a world-class triathlon isn’t only about the race

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As we prepare to host more than 1500 athletes and 6000 spectators this weekend, at least one Ironman volunteer is thinking about more than the race.

Anna Knott Collins is the Downtown Celebration Coordinator. Anna says her job is to ‘make the Downtown go wow and ensure the athletes have a great experience while they are here.’ Anna has been decorating the downtown, and planning activities, in the hope that busy spectators will remain in the downtown on race day while they wait for the runners to go through.

Anna’s plan included salvaging 15 bicycles, everything from a tricycle to an old cruiser. She painted the bikes orange and black and scattered them around town. Anna even painted her uncle’s bike. Uncle Sam, as she affectionately named the bike, resides at Wilgress Cafe.

Starting Saturday the bikes become part of a scavenger hunt for kids. Prizes have been donated by Reflections of Muskoka, Applause, Muskoka Bicycle, AO and Nutty Chocolatier.
Anna has also secured some cord lighting to light the way as many athletes will be making their way through the downtown in the dark.

My job is to ‘make the Downtown go wow and ensure the athletes have a great experience while they are here.’

Anna Knott

On race day, instead of ugly orange pylons, the running lanes on the Main street will be delineated by canoes. The big red Muskoka chair from Kelly’s Home Furniture has been relocated to River Mill Park. It’s ideal for photo opportunities.

For inspiration Anna said, “I just kept thinking Muskoka, Muskoka theme,” although she does admit to looking at Pinterest.

Ironman events started Thursday and continue all weekend. Go to http://trimuskoka.com/ironman-muskoka/ for a complete listing of events, race route and road closure information.

 

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