The North Carolina Triathlon Series will bring athletes from across the region to White Lake this September. The series is a weekend of competition steeped in tradition and community spirit. The White Lake Fall International Triathlon will take place Saturday, Sept. 6, followed by the Double Sprint Triathlon on Sunday, Sept. 7, at The Grand Regal at Goldston’s Beach.
“Goldston’s Beach was where it all began, and now, almost three decades later, it’s still the heart of White Lake triathlon weekends”
A Rich History on the Water’s Edge
The event traces its roots back to a chance meeting in 1995, when the race’s founder, then a Wilmington sporting goods store owner and avid triathlete, met 67-year-old Jack Riel. Riel, in remarkable shape and working as an extra in films shot in Wilmington, struck up a conversation about the triathlon shirts hanging around the shop’s walls.
Intrigued by the sport and eager to show off his hometown, Riel invited the store owner to visit White Lake. Standing on the pier at Goldston’s Beach, the organizer was struck by the lake’s beauty. Within a year, plans were in motion, and in May 1996, the first White Lake Triathlon took place.
Riel quickly became the heart of the event’s post-race festivities, famously performing karaoke, complete with a sound system on the pier and delivering renditions of “New York, New York” that became the stuff of local legend.
“Jack negotiated karaoke into the event agreement,” the organizer recalled. “It was pure Jack; he brought joy and personality to the races.”
Riel passed away in 2008, but his influence remains woven into the fabric of the event. His son, Tom Riel, now serves on the Elizabethtown City Council, while Jake Womble, who was present at that first race, operates the family business at Goldston’s Beach.
The Grand Regal: A New Name for a Familiar Landmark
Formerly known simply as Goldston’s Beach, the venue has been rebranded as The Grand Regal at Goldston’s Beach, still maintaining its historic charm while offering updated amenities. The venue’s deep connection to the triathlon community makes it an ideal setting for the fall races.
Competitors can expect a scenic course, a supportive crowd and the crystal clear waters that have long been the lake’s hallmark. Organizers say the lake’s clarity and mild temperatures make it one of the most inviting swimming venues in the Southeast.
More Than Just a Race
While the competition draws seasoned triathletes and weekend warriors alike, the event has always been about more than finishing times. Families and friends gather for the weekend, enjoying the beach, local dining, and the camaraderie of the sport.
“It’s a community celebration,” the organizer said. “Athletes come for the challenge, but they stay and come back year after year for the people and the atmosphere.”
Registration and Participation
Both events are open to individuals and relay teams. Organizers encourage early registration, as the races are expected to draw strong participation from across the Carolinas and beyond.
Whether competing in the grueling International distance or the fast-paced Double Sprint, athletes will be part of a tradition nearly three decades in the making.
From its origin story involving a chance meeting and a boat tour, to the karaoke nights led by its colorful co-founder, the White Lake Triathlon has carved out a unique place in North Carolina’s endurance sports scene. And this September, the tradition continues right where it all began.
Race Details and Schedule
The White Lake Fall International Triathlon will begin at 8 a.m. Saturday. Participants will swim 1,500 meters, cycle 28 miles on surrounding roads and finish with a 10-kilometer run.
The Double Sprint, starting at 8 a.m. Sunday, offers a unique twist, a 375-meter swim, 1.5-mile run, 18.5-mile bike ride, another 1.5-mile run, and a final 375-meter swim all before crossing the finish line.
Packet pickup for the International race will be available Friday, Sept. 5, from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. and Saturday morning from 6 a.m. to 7:30 a.m. Double Sprint participants can collect packets Saturday evening from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m., or Sunday morning between 6 a.m. and 7:30 a.m. All packet pickup will take place at The Grand Regal at Goldston’s Beach, 1608 White Lake Drive, White Lake, NC. To register, visit https://findarace.com/us/events/white-lake-fall-international-double-sprint