Why the Location Change?
Why the Change?
While Mt. Gretna’s scenic beauty and charm have made it a beloved race venue, its mountainous terrain has posed significant barriers for adaptive athletes—especially those who rely on handcycles. The steep hills surrounding the venue, while demanding for any athlete, have proven nearly insurmountable for many adaptive participants.
Additionally, as an official race in the USAT ParaDevelopment Series, we recognize that the distance and incline from the swim to the bike transition area—which often required adaptive athletes to be carried—does not align with our commitment to removing barriers.
Why Ephrata?
To make the Got the Nerve? Triathlon more inclusive and welcoming for adaptive athletes, we searched for a venue that would meet key criteria:
Bike Course
✅ A reasonably flat course with elevation changes under 4%—making it accessible for athletes using handcycles.
✅ A fully paved route, as required by the USAT ParaDevelopment Series.
✅ Rural surroundings with minimal traffic for a safer, more enjoyable ride.
Swim Course
✅ Selection of an outdoor pool that is beginner-friendly and ideal for adaptive swimmers.
✅ An accessible ramp to make water entry and exit easier for athletes with disabilities.
✅ Greater scheduling flexibility with more available race dates.
Run Course
✅ The Ephrata-Lititz Rail Trail—a fully paved, safe, and scenic route perfect for all runners.
The Ephrata Community
Beyond the race itself, Ephrata offers:
🏨 Lodging & dining options for traveling athletes.
🎖️ A strong connection to military veterans, with local organizations like the American Legion, AmVets, and VFW.
🏅 A historic race experience, as runners will pass the Dick Winters Memorial, honoring the WWII hero.
🏊♂️ A premier training facility, thanks to the Ephrata Area Recreation Center, which provides excellent swimming resources.
