The Outdoorsman Triathlon

Description

The 50th Annual Outdoorsman Triathlon
September 27–28, 2025

In 1976, NOC co-founder Payson Kennedy, alongside Olympic canoeist John Burton and Georgia Tech professor Russ Callen, issued a bold challenge: a triathlon forged in the raw elements of the Great Smoky Mountains. No frills. No handouts. Just grit, determination, and the wilderness.

What began as a dare among friends became the nation’s longest-running continuous triathlon, and a rite of passage for generations of athletes.

Held every September on the Little Tennessee River, the Outdoorsman Triathlon combines a 1-mile swim, 4-mile run, and 8-mile canoe paddle. The course is as rugged as the rules: no assistance, no shortcuts, just you and the mountains. NOC is proud to share this legendary event carried on by those who are passionate outdoorsmen, rooted in the spirit of challenge, camaraderie, and love for the outdoors that built our community.

Find out more about the event on the Outdoorsman Triathalon Website