Local race volunteer John French has thrown a lifeline to the Squamish Triathlon - a Memorial to Bob McIntosh by becoming its race director, saving the race from sure cancellation.
"It just wouldn't be right for the event to fold," said French. "The Squamish Triathlon is a key event in this community, one of a group that makes up part of the Squamish identity, and it is my desire to see it thrive well into the future."
Rescued hand in hand with the event itself is the Robert W. McIntosh Scholarship Fund, created to assist Squamish students who have demonstrated abilities in academics, athletics and citizenship, that receives the triathlon's net proceeds.
Less than one month ago, the popular event of 13 years, held in memory of a local triathlete, was close to being cancelled as Peter Hotston, race director since the inaugural event, announced he was stepping down.
"We are so happy that John French has come forward," said Hotston. "With new leadership I think the triathlon will continue to grow and improve for years to come - change is always good."
Hotston has assured French he will help out as much as is needed in the lead-up to Squamish Triathlon 2011, and is happy to have such a capable candidate taking the reins.
French has competed in the swim portion of the race as a relay team member for the past six years.
He has also been the Test of Metal race announcer since the very beginning and the administrator for the past 11 years, a job that involves securing land use permits and agreements required for the race.
"That experience has been vital in giving me an understanding of what it takes to put on a large sporting event," he said.
Test of Metal race director Cliff Miller and other members of the team assured French that his tasks will be covered and he isn't worried.
"The Test of Metal crew and the triathlon volunteers are some of the most talented people in Squamish," he said.
"I am confident that teamwork from both organizations will ensure success in 2011 for both events."
French said these types of events exemplify Squamish's designation as the Outdoor Recreation Capital of Canada.
"The Squamish Triathlon is a great triathlon and it is an established event that supports the claim that Squamish is the Recreation Capital of Canada," he said.
"The triathlon promotes healthy living and it brings positive economic impacts to Squamish. This community needs more healthy activity opportunities and economic impactors, not less."
