‘The competition is always fierce’: 2024 Pole Pedal Paddle champion prepares to defend title
Jillian Fortner
(Update: Adding video)
Jillian Fortner has a report on KTVZ News at 6:00 p.m.
BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) – Triathlete Andy Krueger is gearing up to defend his title at this year’s Pole Pedal Paddle, a race he’s been familiar with since childhood.
“I grew up watching my parents compete in it,” Krueger said.
The SELCO Pole Pedal Paddle, a multi-sport race that starts at Mt. Bachelor and ends at Riverbend Park. Participants must ski, bike, run and paddle their way to the finish line.
Krueger finished last year’s race in under 1 hour and 45 minutes.
He claimed first place in the male elite individual category, while Grace Perkins won the female elite title in 2024.
“I think running through the woods, realizing you were just skiing a few minutes before, is pretty cool,” he said.
The event, which began in the 1970s with just 16 participants, has grown significantly. This year, more than 1,900 competitors are signed up to race.
Race Director Marieka Greene said, “It’s the longest-running multi-sport event in Oregon, and those of us who call Central Oregon home really value what it means to our community.”
Organizers say the event will follow a similar format to last year, but will feature new categories.
“We have a family pairs division, mostly for parents and their kids, as well as a military division for active or veteran military and their family and friends,” Greene said.
Krueger is looking forward to competing again this weekend, though he expects tough competition.
“There are some new names, some returning names. Some people who were injured last year are now back,” Krueger said. “It’s going to be a hard race to win this year, but I’m excited to do my best and hopefully come out the two-time champion.”
Krueger shared some advice for racers competing for the first time.
“I’d say check the weather for the weekend. It’s going to be cooler, so make sure to layer up. If you can, take a moment to enjoy the views. It’s a part of history that you get to be a part of,” Krueger said.
The PPP is the largest fundraiser for the Mt. Bachelor Sports Education Foundation. Funds generated from the event allow MBSEF to make program fees affordable for youth athletes in Central Oregon.