What to know: Midland’s summer triathlon tradition is returning as the 4th Annual Rock the Rind Tall City Triathlon heads back to COM Aquatics on Saturday, July 25.

Hosted by The Athletic Company, the sprint-distance triathlon is designed for athletes of all experience levels, from first-time competitors to experienced racers and relay teams. The race begins at 8 a.m. at COM Aquatics and includes a 500-meter swim, 11-mile bike ride, and 3.1-mile run.

The big picture: The race begins inside the FMH Foundation Natatorium at COM Aquatics with a 500-meter swim before athletes transition to an 11-mile bike route along Loop 250 service roads. Participants will then finish with a 3.1-mile run through Windlands Park toward North I Street. Both individual and relay registration options are available. Relay teams may compete with either two or three participants.

Participants and families will also have access to a post-race swim party from 10 a.m. to noon at COM Aquatics, along with refreshments, watermelon, event swag, and finisher medals.

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Go deeper: Packet pickup will take place Friday, July 24, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. at Midland Athletic Company, located at 3326 N. Midkiff Road. Race morning pickup will also be available Saturday from 6:15-7:15 a.m. at COM Aquatics.

The event also relies on volunteers, with opportunities available for community members needing service hours or looking to assist with aid stations, course operations, and post-race activities. Volunteers can contact [email protected] for more information.

What’s next: Registration currently starts at $90 for individual competitors and $140 for relay teams.

Athletes interested in participating can find additional information and registration through the Rock the Rind Tall City Triathlon race page and register directly through the registration page.