A staff report
Contributed photos by The Grand Regal Resort
In White Lake, North Carolina, a tradition that began 28 years ago has evolved into a celebration of athleticism, community, and the enduring legacy of one man’s vision. What started as a modest Sprint distance race has blossomed into a successful annual event, offering triathletes the choice of a Sprint, an International, or a Half Triathlon in the spring months. At the helm of this event’s evolution stand two names synonymous with dedication and passion: Tom Clifford and Aaron Kolk, joining forces with Bill Scott to craft an unforgettable PRO-AM race experience.
The genesis of the White Lake Triathlon traces back to a chance encounter in 1995, when Jack Riel, a vibrant soul with a penchant for adventure, stumbled upon Bill Scott’s sporting goods store in Wilmington. Drawn to the eclectic display of triathlon shirts adorning the walls, Jack struck up a conversation that would alter the course of history. With a twinkle in his eye and infectious enthusiasm, Jack extended an invitation to White Lake, a beautiful haven waiting to be discovered.
“A week or so after Jack came into my store, I was standing on one of the piers at Goldston’s Beach, marveling at what I was looking at. This was the prettiest lake I had ever seen. Jack took me out on his boat for about a 15-minute tour of the lake. Things progressed rapidly after that, and the first race was held in May of 1996,” Scott recalls.
In May of 1996, against the backdrop of White Lake’s tranquil waters, the inaugural White Lake Triathlon unfolded—a testament to the power of dreams and the spirit of camaraderie.
Jack Riel was more than just a visionary; he was a showman, a maestro of merriment who infused the event with his unique brand of joy. His karaoke performances became legendary, a cherished tradition that captured the hearts of triathletes and spectators alike. Though Jack may have departed this world in 2008, his spirit lives on in the laughter that echoes across White Lake and the memories that endure in the hearts of all who knew him.
Today, the White Lake Triathlon continues to thrive, thanks to the dedication of individuals like Tom Clifford, Aaron Kolk, and the indomitable spirit of the White Lake community. Jake Womble, a witness to that first historic race, proudly upholds the family business at Goldston’s Beach, a testament to the enduring bond between tradition and progress.
As the White Lake Pro-Am Half Triathlon unfolded at The Grand Regal Resort this past weekend, it was more than just a sporting event—it was a celebration of dreams chased and memories made. Against the backdrop of White Lake’s shimmering waters, athletes from far and wide pushed their limits, fueled by the spirit of determination and the unwavering support of their families and supporters.
For The Grand Regal Resort, hosting the Half Triathlon was an honor and reaffirmed their commitment to nurturing dreams and creating lasting memories. As participants crossed the finish line, their faces flushed with triumph, the resort stood as a testament to the power of community and the boundless potential of the human spirit.
As we look to the future, let us carry forward the legacy of the White Lake Triathlon— and continue the dreams of Jack Riel, Bill Scott, Tom Clifford, Aaron Kolk, and the others who have made this event what it is today.
Congratulations to all the participants who finished the event. Quinton Kneeland from De Pere, WI, came in first place; Nathan Poland from Cary, NC, came in second; Tim Starets from Winston-Salem, NC, came in third; Karen Monuszko from Durham, NC, came in fourth; and Anna Armfield from Virginia Beach, VA, placed fifth. View the race results by visiting the White Lake Pro-Am Half Triathlon’s website.
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