Hundreds of Triathletes Gather in Annapolis Thursday

Have you set your new year's resolution yet? How about swimming, biking and running a few miles with local athletes?

Hundreds of athletes call Annapolis home, and this week many of them will gather to begin setting their goals for 2014.

The Annapolis Triathlon Club boasts 275 members, and are an official USA Triathlon Club since being founded in 2007.

President of the club, Randy Stiles, said the group was formed from local endurance junkies looking for people to train with. Annapolis is something of a sweet spot for training, and the region attracts all kinds of athletes, he said.

"The natural resources around Annapolis are great conditions to swim, bike and run," Stiles said. "The club offers a vast experience to help you reach your goals plus unique access to local professionals for support."

This year's annual meeting Thursday at the Westin in Annapolis will gather hundreds of the club's members to talk about upcoming events.

Stiles said these meetings are a gathering place for those new to the sport and elite athletes who have competed in national and international championships. It's also a great way to introduce bystanders to the benefits of the sport, he said.

"The meeting will showcase our plans for the upcoming season, and how we plan on supporting our members in reaching their goals," he said.

Check the Annapolis Tri Club's event listing on Patch for more information.