Katy/Fulshear Community Firethorne to Host 18th Annual Katy Triathlon Sunday, Oct 24

BELLAIRE, TX, August 16, 2010 (Press-News.org) Katy/Fulshear residential community Firethorne will host the 18th Annual Katy Triathlon at Firethorne, the third largest co-ed triathlon in Texas, Sunday, October 24, 7:30 a.m. - 11 a.m., in and around the 1,400-acre Firethorne community.

The USA Triathlon-sanctioned race, sponsored by the Rotary Club of Katy, encompasses a 16-mile bike race, a three-mile run and a 500-meter swim in Lake Firethorne.

"Firethorne is a great partner on this event and we're thrilled to be back," said Rotary Club of Katy Treasurer Vicki Rao. "We really enjoy the residents -- they're phenomenal people. Their response was so incredible last year, especially those who live near Race Central (the Visitor Center).

The 2010 race hopes to draw 1,000 participants -- 900+ individual athletes, plus those on relay teams.

The Katy Triathlon cycling route will include sections of FM 1463 and US Hwy. 90, within the Katy city limits. Firethorne is located on FM 1463, near the crossroads of the I-10 West corridor, Westpark Tollway and Grand Parkway.

"Firethorne's 12-acre lake amenity and proximity to wide spaces of rural areas is conducive to having a successful triathlon," said veteran Race Director Dave Rainey.

The registration fee is $55 per person and $75 per relay team through September 1. Registration is open and continues through October 20. The complete fee structure and deadlines are posted on the new website, www.katytriathlon.com.

The Rotary Club of Katy, race sponsor, donates event proceeds to the Katy Rotary Fund, which supports local charities for their work in providing essential health, recreation and educational services to children in Katy ISD. In May, the Rotary Fund awarded $21,000 in scholarships, $1,500 each to 14 graduating seniors from the district's six high schools. Cinco Ranch High School FBLA, Rotary Interact Club and Boy Scouts provide have provided volunteer support for the race. Race sponsorships, underwriters and in-kind underwriters are available. For information, call 281-391-3655.

Firethorne, located 15 miles west of Houston's Energy Corridor, blends the best nature has to offer: 150 acres devoted to parks and recreational amenities, a 12-acre lake with surrounding greenbelt, hike/bike trails, parks and playgrounds, tennis courts, Fitness Center, resort-style swimming pool, discovery-rich wildlife observation area and a natural bird habitat. Served by highly acclaimed schools, Firethorne combines the vibrancy of West Houston with the small-town charm of Katy/Fulshear. To tour Firethorne, take I-10 West and exit Pin Oak to FM 1463, call 281-395-1440 or visit www.firethorne.info.

The Katy Triathlon cycling route will include sections of FM 1463 and US Hwy. 90, within the Katy city limits. Firethorne is located on FM 1463, near the crossroads of the I-10 West corridor, Westpark Tollway and Grand Parkway. "Firethorne's 12-acre lake amenity and proximity to wide spaces of rural areas is conducive to having a successful triathlon," said veteran Race Director Dave Rainey.