Courtesy: USAT

The Baker's Healthy Start Foundation Triathlon, on Aug. 7 in Bellingham, Wash., will serve as the U.S. triathlon national championships and world championship qualifier for elite, youth (13-15), junior ITU-style (16-19) and under-23 athletes, USA Triathlon has announced.

The Baker's race is part of USA Triathlon's 2005 Elite Cup Series - The Haul to the Great Wall - and part of the International Triathlon Union's (ITU) Continental Cup Series as well.

U.S. elite athletes will be competing for prize money, points for both the Elite Cup and Continental Cup series, and spots on the U.S. team for the ITU World Triathlon Championships on Sept. 10 in Gamagori, Japan. International athletes will also have a chance to win money and points. Many of the top U.S. elite athletes are expected to compete.

U23 and junior ITU-style triathletes can also use the race to qualify for the world championships in Gamagori.

USA Triathlon sponsor Baker's Breakfast Cookie, which is based in Bellingham and produces tasty and healthy breakfast cookies, is the title sponsor of the race for the third year. In 2004, the race served as the U.S. Olympic Team Trials for triathlon.

The Baker's Healthy Start Foundation diligently supports the fight against childhood obesity by providing healthy food to underprivileged children and teaching better eating habits for breakfast.

"As this event grows, the community and generous sponsor support have ensured its long term success," said Baker's founder Erin Baker. "The event draws more than 1000 athletes and 6000-plus spectators and brings in over $1,000,000 to the local economy. We look forward to its continued growth."

The race's swim takes place in Lake Whatcom and the transition is in Bloedel Donovan Park. Athletes ride and run on the wide, traffic-free streets around the park.

Elite athletes know that they will have to tackle the 18 degree grade of "Alabama Hill" six times on the bike. This is a great place for spectators to watch the competition.

"The Baker's Healthy Start Foundation Triathlon is a jewel in the crown of USA Triathlon," said Libby Burrell, USA Triathlon national teams program director. "Both elites and age groupers look forward to visiting this beautiful town and competing on such a challenging course."

For more race information, go to www.trithecookie.com.