For now, the race will go on.
That's the message organizers are sending to those competing in the annual Prince George Triathlon Sunday at West Lake.
Friday's rain showers brought some relief to the poor air quality that resulted from several wildfires burning in the Prince George area and more rain is forecast for today.
Organizers will continue to keep an eye on the weather and determine their next course of action on Sunday.
"We'll make that judgement call around safety, such as air quality or lightning or any major safety issue on Sunday," said race committee member Craig Somerville on Friday. "Right now, it's still on. Speaking to Triathlon B.C. we're not the only race it's concerned about this weekend. Rain won't hamper the race though."
If the race does go ahead as scheduled, 125 athletes are expected to converge on the north end of the shores of West Lake at 7 a.m. for check-in and body marking prior to the 9 a.m. start gun.
Events include individual male, female and team categories.
"The numbers are stronger than last year," said Somerville. "There seems to be a lot of new names and faces, which is good."
The Olympic distance triathlon consists of a 1.5-kilometre swim, 40km bike ride, 10km run, while the sprint event is comprised of a .75km swim, 20km bike and 5km run.
The duathlon is comprised of a 40km bike ride sandwiched between two 5km runs.
The attraction of the gruelling, multi-disciplined sport is two-fold, said Somerville.
"It's the ability to do a race according to your strengths, whether running, swimming or cycling," he said. "And there's some variety too - with the duathlon there's no swim.
"You're in the lake, you're swimming, you're in the outdoors or you're running on the beach trails. There's also a sense of community and we make it a positive experience for everyone. It doesn't matter if you're first or last, everybody cheers you on. With the athletes and their families, we've had up to 300 people [on site]."
After the final athlete crosses the finish line, awards and a barbecue follow at 1 p.m.
Volunteers are still needed to help out for an hour or two between 7 a.m. and 4 p.m.
Race package pick-up and bike check (mandatory) is today from noon to 4 p.m. at Evolve Sport and Cycle.
Those looking for more information about the race can visit http://pgtriathlon.homestead.com/index.html or their Facebook page, PG Triathlon.
