Athletes test their abilities near the Sleeping Bear Sand Dunes Saturday
More than 300 athletes raced in this year's M-22 challenge, a triathlon that is a real test of ability.
The race consisted of biking, running, and kayaking skills.
It began at 9 Saturday morning, and the athletes raced within the Sleeping Bear Sand Dunes and around Glen Lake.
It included a 100-yard climb up a dune.
the M-22 challenge concluded with a two mile paddle session.
It's the second year this event has been held, and we spoke with the organizers and some race participants Saturday morning.
"Lots of locals, a lot of people from out of town, kayaking is a unique part of the race, and people tend to really like that, as you can see with the view out here, it's amazing," said organizer Matt Myers.
"This is right up my alley, I heard about it last year, and I've been looking forward to it since last year," said Cheboygan resident and winner of the event Denny Paull.
"It's a great ride, it's a lot of fun, the kayak makes it a little different, and the kayak, it was a bit foggy in the water, but it's a good time," said Olympian Jonathan Kauk.
"it's fantastic, it's such a beautiful area, and then to actually race through it, and experience it, it's really like no other race, I've been in Triathlon's all over in Michigan, and this is very unique," said Traverse City resident Steve Andriese.
Denny Paull, this year's winner, finished the race in 1:20:08.
Next year, the organizers say they hope 500 athletes can take part.
This year, they had to turn some away because of the lack of kayak space.
