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Ugly Dog Triathlon

July 26, 2025 Grass Lake, MI 49240 US

It's time to get UGLY!

What's new in 2025?

The most significant change is the elimination of the Olympic distance events.  Participation has been going down in the longer distances for the past few years, so after much consideration and a ridiculous amount of back and forth, we decided to switch our focus to being the most beginner-friendly event possible.  For those of you still wanting to race at an Olympic distance event, we offer it in gravel at The Dirty Mitten and on the road at most other Tris4Health events.

We've also slightly modified the Super Sprint and Sprint bike courses.  We removed the in-road turnaround, which shortens the route slightly, but it should make for a safer and more enjoyable for everyone

Secured Start Line Guarantee

This one is big.  We understand life can sometimes get in the way of the best-laid plans, including racing. But don’t worry – we’ve got you covered with our Secured Start Line Guarantee. In simple terms, we now offer free race transfers, deferrals, and participant transfers until the day before the event. 

  • Are you injured?  No problem, defer to next year.
  • Did you forget your daughter’s dance recital that your wife put on the schedule 8 months ago?  No problem, transfer the entry to a friend.
  • Does it look like it might sprinkle, and you don’t want to get your precious bike wet, even though you usually jump on it after swimming?  Transfer the entry to another race like Grand Rapids Tri or try something completely different, like The Dirty Mitten (no pun intended).

We have always said that we are an athlete-focused company.  The first thing we ask ourselves when considering a change is whether or not it will benefit you, our athletes.  With that in mind, we put our money where our metaphorical mouths are. We are offering something that very few companies do, allowing you the flexibility to race on your terms without penalty.  We hope to see you out there this year!

Updated Team Policy

Our 2025 team policy is designed to reward both those who race with us the year before and those who race with us this year.  It includes registration discounts, private porta-poties, custom race swag and more!  Check out the details here.

Why race with us?

We know there are a lot of race companies out there and many events to choose from.  We pride ourselves on being an athlete-focused company and hope to give you more bang for your buck than anyone else.  Here are a few of the reasons we feel we are a cut above the rest:

Incredible finisher medals - we go all out when it comes to finisher medals.

Custom participant shirts - high-quality tri-blend material, custom-designed yearly to commemorate your accomplishments.  They are available in both men's and women's cuts.

Excellent finish line food - we always offer various options so that everyone has something to refuel with while they celebrate.

Family-friendly vacation destination - Everyone loves the beaches in West Michigan!  

Secured Start Line Guarantee - with our new policy,  you don't have to sweat your registration should something happen.

Amazing team program - racing is better with friends and we will reward you for bringing them.

One of the safest swims around - seriously, our swim coordinator usually has enough boats and lifeguards so that you only need to swim 25-50 yards between them.

Locally owned and managed company - your money not only helps to provide jobs in our community but also benefits local and national charity groups. In 2024, Tris4Health events raised over $200,000 and directly donated more than $30,000 in cash and entries.

Professionally produced events - we are one of Michigan's largest event production companies and know how to show our athletes a good time.  When you attend a Tris4Health event, you can expect a high-quality, professionally produced event with the Tris4Health feel our athletes have come to know and love.

Options for everybody - With triathlon, aquabike, duathlon, and relay offerings at two distances, we know we have a race for you!  Are you interested in the world of multisport but don't know where to start?  Reach out and we can help find the race for you and can even match you up with relay partners.

Our ambassadors - our ambassadors will be on-site to help answer any questions you might have.  Whether it's your first event or your fiftieth, they are there to help.

Our volunteers - year in and year out our volunteers are rated as the best around.  We couldn't do this without them so be sure to thank them on race day!

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