An Aug. 18 article in the Lake Stevens Journal regarding the Ironman event held there mentions the following: “We anticipate that the event brought in over $1.5 million to our local area over the three-day period …” Lake Stevens Police Chief and Lake Stevens Chamber of Commerce President Randy Celori said. “I think this event has significant impact on some of our smaller businesses.”
Some 875 people finished the event. Eight states and four countries (Canada, Australia, Columbia and Argentina) were represented by the top 15 finishers. The winner completed the course in 3:56:36 and averaged 25 mph on the 56-mile bike route.
The effort expended by all participants makes it obvious that this event was of extreme importance to them. As one of the estimated 4,500 spectators, I was struck by the positive atmosphere generated by people pursuing their goals and by those cheering them on.
A Saturday letter to The Herald, however, indicates that one gentleman considered the event to be just an annoyance and proof that “most” bicyclists are inconsiderate. The basis for this assertion was that riders were using a section of Machias Road instead of the Centennial Trail, thereby slowing traffic. He further contended that, since extra traffic control was required, taxpayers’ money was being “wasted” on cyclists. (Clearly, Chief Celori disagrees.)
The speed limit on the Centennial Trail is 15 mph and there would be a need to navigate around families, dogs, rollerbladers and other cyclists coming and going. Not only would the athletes be confronted with additional unnecessary obstacles and challenges, safety would become a serious issue as well.
In this particular instance, the cause of any inconvenience must be attributed only to practicality; not inconsideration. It is my sincere hope this truth will make any remaining discomfort more tolerable.
Claudia Postema
Everett
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