Dozens of contestants will experience the James River and its environs in one arduous, yet fun, afternoon during the second Buchanan Tri— Run, Ride & River Race this Saturday, Sept. 9.

Contestants will run, ride and paddle their way through this 20-mile, multi-sport adventure in beautiful Botetourt County.

Tim Miller and Lisa Moyer of Muddy Squirrel have worked with the Town of Buchanan to coordinate the day’s activities.

The public is invited to signup for the race (see online registration information below) or watch from the Town Park located at 485 Lowe Street.

The Tri begins at the Gazebo at the Town Park with about a 2-mile run. The starting gun is at 2 p.m.

Buchanan native Luke Higginbotham will be back to defend his overall and men’s title in from the first Buchanan Tri. He finished the 20-mile course in 2:03:56, just over 2 minutes ahead of Doug Falls of Roanoke who was second in the inaugural race in 2:06:06 and 2.5 minutes ahead of third place Brian Walters of Salem. Both the nearly 60-year-olds are back and will try to beat Higginbotham, who is half their age.

Brittany Jones of Lynchburg won the Female Overall in the individual race last year in 2:30:41. Lacee Simmons of Montvale was 2 minutes, 58 seconds behind her for second and Nancy Fulford of Roanoke was third in 2:43:55. Only Fulford is registered so far this year.

While most of the contestants are from Botetourt and the Roanoke Valley, others are coming from Virginia Beach, Arlington, Staunton, Forest, Rockbridge and Raleigh, N.C.

Contestants will run two miles out and back to the par, bike from the park 13 miles through the countryside to the Springwood boat landing on the James River, then paddle on the James River the 5 miles back to the Buchanan Town Park and the finish line. After crossing the finish line, racers will be able to enjoy Pork by the James on the Town Park.

Earlier in the week, 65 individuals and three teams were registered for the Tri.

Registration is through Muddy Squirrel at www.muddysquirrel.com/buchanan-tri.html.

The race has divisions for individual men and women and teams. Race registration for individuals is $70 until race day.

Registration for relay teams is $40 per person.

Participants will receive a race T-shirt (guaranteed if registered by August 15) and a post-race beer (for those 21 and over). Top finishers will receive unique awards.

Boat transport will be provided for the kayak transition at the Springwood ramp on the James.

Those without a kayak can rent one at a special rate for the race at Twin River Outfitters at (540) 261-7334 or email at [email protected].

For additional information call the Buchanan Downtown Revitalization Program at 254-1212.