Annual winter triathlon returns to The Forks

Dozens of Winnipeggers took part in 1JustCity's annual Beat the Cold triathlon at The Forks on Feb. 1, 2025. (Dan Timmerman/CTV News Winnipeg)

Saturday morning’s freezing temperatures didn’t stop dozens of Winnipeggers from taking part in an annual race at The Forks.

Beat the Cold is a triathlon that sees athletes run, bike and skate along the Nestaweya River Trail. Hosted by 1JustCity and Trifactor Triathlon Club, the event raises money for Just a Warm Sleep, an overnight emergency warming centre for people experiencing homelessness.

“The funds raised help us provide food for people, we provide showers, we provide laundry services, we provide cultural programs for people, we provide community, and most of all, we provide a warm place for them to come and sleep and get out of the cold,” said 1JustCity executive director Glynis Quinn.

Last year, warmer-than-average temperatures turned the event into a duathalon, with participants running and biking.

“I think triathlon is this thing that really intimidates a lot of people,” said first-time Beat the Cold racer Zach Havens. “They feel like there’s a lot of infrastructure, there’s a lot of rules, there’s a lot of whatever, and you need to be fast. And none of that is true.

“This community is so supportive and wonderful.”

Race director Marc Baldwin said he hopes the annual tradition can continue.

“So much of our race depends on the conditions and … the availability of the river trail, but we hope to be back next February to do it again,” he said.

As of Saturday morning, the event raised more than $13,000 for the emergency warming centre and the services 1JustCity provides.