Fourth of July festivities may be in the rearview mirror, but in Bethel, the summer fun has only begun. This Saturday, July 12, the community has something for everyone, and even a couple of firsts.
Bethel Relay Triathlon
At 10 a.m., the Bethel Relay Triathlon kicks off at the Yukon Kuskokwim Fitness Center (YKFC). Co-organizer Nate DeHaan said that he’s pretty sure it’s something brand new for the community.
"As far as I know, it is the first ever triathlon in Bethel. No one has provided any evidence to the contrary yet," DeHaan said.
The race is essentially a traditional sprint triathlon in reverse. People can compete in three-person teams or go solo. It starts with a 5K run, continues with a 20K bike ride, and finishes with a 500-meter swim in the fitness center pool. DeHaan said that the relay format takes away a bit of the intimidation factor, but that the point is to get as many people as possible involved.
"This is open to anyone that has any inkling of desire to do it. Doesn't matter your ability level or how fast you are, anything like that. We Just wanna get people out," DeHaan said.
As of July 8, DeHaan said that nearly 10 teams had registered, as well as a handful of solo racers going for the whole enchilada. Registration is free and open until the evening of Friday, July 11. To register, head to the Run Bethel website.
For triathletes and spectators, there may still be time to also make it over to the Yupiit Picaryarait Cultural Center to peruse the wide range of homegrown handicrafts and tasty treats for sale at the second Saturday Market of the summer, which runs from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Simultaneously, others may opt to head to another event popping off: the Bethel Volunteer Emergency Services Association Mud Volleyball Tournament. It’s an 8-on-8 tournament held at the gravel pit off BIA Road. It tips off at 11 a.m. Proceeds go to support Bethel’s volunteer firefighters and EMTs. For more information about participating contact, event organizer Joey Valadez by texting 907-545-1357.
Bethel Pride
July 12 is also a day of celebrating Bethel’s LGBTQ+ community as part of Bethel Pride. It begins with a sign-making event at 10 a.m. at the Yupiit Picaryarait Cultural Center, continues with a Pride march to Watson’s Corner at noon, and concludes with Bethel’s first-ever drag show back at the Yupiit Picaryarait Cultural Center. Doors open at 7:00 p.m., the show starts at 7:30 p.m., and admission is free.
While Pride celebrations generally take place in June, co-organizer Taylor Finley said that there is never a wrong time to show up to support the community.
"Celebrating queer identity and standing up for support of the queer community is something that can happen all year long. Secondly, it was a practical decision in that June is very, very busy for performers," Finley said.
The four drag performers flying into Bethel for the event are all Indigenous and Alaska-based, and as Finley explained, all excited to bring their unique art form off the road system.
"There'll be audience participation. It's really a variety show, kind of almost like a theater style event that's happening, and we are working closely with the performers to approve content and music selection to make sure that everyone, all ages, anybody, can enjoy it and come have a fun time together," Finley said.
A dance party is scheduled to finish the event out at 10 p.m. For anyone who has still not had their fill of community events, more summer events are around the corner, including a half-marathon hosted by Run Bethel and scheduled for Saturday, July 26.
