Polar Bear Triathlon

MAY
2
2026
The Polar Bear Triathlon and Duathlon kicks off the New England multi-sport season on the campus of Bowdoin College. The sprint-distance event features a pool swim, a bike ride on coastal roads, and a run on trails. It offers various formats including triathlon, duathlon, and virtual options.
Sat 2 May 2026
Duathlon Run 1 Duathlon Run 2 Polar Bear Triathlon Run Bike Course Triathlon Swim

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Event Overview

The Polar Bear Triathlon and Duathlon is a multi-sport event held on the campus of Bowdoin College in Brunswick, Maine. It takes place on the first Saturday of May.

Available Events

The event includes several race formats:

  • Polar Bear Triathlon
  • College Student Sprint Triathlon
  • Duathlon
  • College Student Duathlon
  • Triathlon Relay
  • Student Triathlon Relay
  • Sprint Aquabike
  • Virtual Triathlon
  • Virtual Duathlon

Course Details

The standard triathlon is a sprint-distance event. The duathlon replaces the swim with a run.

  • A 525-yard swim in a 16-lane pool (for the triathlon)
  • A 2-mile run (first leg for duathletes)
  • An 11.5-mile bike course on country coastal roads
  • A 3-mile run on wide, hard-packed trails and quiet neighborhood streets

The event uses facilities at Bowdoin College, including a 16-lane pool, locker rooms with showers, and a flat grass transition area.

Additional Information

The event is sanctioned by USA Triathlon. A one-day USA Triathlon membership is required for registration if the participant is not an annual member. Virtual participants can complete the distances at their own pace, and swag is mailed after the event. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.

12 mi
Bike Course
3 mi
Duathlon Run 2
3 mi
Polar Bear Triathlon Run
Duathlon Run 1
Triathlon Swim

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