Get ready for Michigan’s (and we think the entire Country’s) ONLY triathlon with a water slide start. This NEW sprint distance is located at picturesque Lake Arvesta Farms Sports Complex in South Haven, MI. South Haven Triathlon will start their race going down one of three 240′ water slides. After the swim, participants will ride a fully closed bike course followed by a beautiful flat run on the grounds of Lake Arvesat Farms.
Try the Slide Tri.
240-foot water slide start. Yes, we're serious.
SUNDAY, JUNE 29, 2025
Lake Arvesta Farms in South Haven, MI
SPRINT DISTANCE
Triathlon, Aquabike, Du
Triathlon water starts are fun. FALSE. They are boring.
HOW DID THIS COME ABOUT?
Jon: “What’s the most ridiculous thing we can do this week?”
John: “Let’s create a new tri, but start people on a water slide.”
Jon: “You had me at ‘water slide’.”
”
Jon & John"Seriously, guys? Seriously?" - Our staff, spouses, USAT.
Packet Pickup + Race Schedule
Packet pickup will take place the morning of the race right at the entrance to the Lake Arvesta Sports Complex. All participants must sign the park’s waiver before racing.
Race Day Schedule
5 am – 7 am: Packet pickup at the race venue
5:30 am: Transition opens
7:30 am: Transition closes
7:45 am: pre-race meeting
8 am: Race Start (all events)
10 am: Roads reopen
11 am: Course cutoff
The park is open to the public at 10 am. Participants will receive a coupon for 15% off admission for the athlete and their family. Families are allowed to enter the park for free to watch the race, but must purchase tickets to enjoy the park’s amenities once the park opens.
Wetsuits are allowed, and athletes do have access to the park’s showers before/after the race.
Courses
Swim Course
This 500-meter(ish), time trial start swim, will start on the top of the water slide hill. Athletes will go down the slides three at a time (one athlete per slide). We will send everyone down every 15 seconds, ensuring the previous group of three are cleared of the bottom of the slide before the next set starts.
*200 water slide spots will be available.
* A traditional swim start will also be offered.
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Bike Course
Our sprint bike course is completely closed to traffic on county roads and is an out-and-back with a connected lollipop loop. It will be flat and fast.
Roads will reopen at 10AM on race morning.
Run Course
Our sprint run will be completely on the grounds of Lake Arvesta Farms and packed dirt roads. The run will wind through the property providing scenic views and a fast course.
