Barb’s Race gets set for 10th running on July 31

July 31 will mark the 10th anniversary edition of Barb’s Race,
the only all-women’s 70.3 triathlon contested in the world.
The event is named after Healdsburg’s Barbara Recchia, a
two-time cancer survivor, who’s served as a dedicated Vineman
volunteer and race organizer for more than a decade.
“It’s hard to believe that it’s the 10th Anniversary of Barb’s
Race,” reflected Recchia. “I feel so grateful and privileged to be
the namesake for such a meaningful event. I’m always amazed at the
enthusiasm, strength and commitment of the women who come to
participate, they make it very special.”
Held in conjunction with the grueling full Vineman triathlon,
Barb’s Race begins at Johnson’s Beach in Guerneville and includes a
1.2-mile swim, 56-mile bike ride through Sonoma County, and ends
with a 13.1-mile half-marathon, finishing up at Windsor High
School.
The race, along with Barb’s Relay, has been a smashing success
since its first nine years, raising a total of $348,000 toward
local cancer support groups, including a record, $83,000 last
year.
Early race projections indicate that a record number of
athletes, perhaps as many as 600, will participate in this year’s
race, pushing the grand total to well over $400,000 in the fight
against cancer.
“Through the money we’ve raised, especially with the generous
efforts of our racers, we’ve been able to help so many people,”
noted Recchia. “It’s truly satisfying to know that we’re making a
difference for people who are facing the diagnosis of cancer.”
Approximately 2/3 of the funds from Barb’s Race have been
contributed to the Sutter Foundation’s Integrative Health and
Healing Services, which provides complementary therapies to women
with cancer. This program has continued to expand and flourish
during the past decade.
Last year’s event was won by 29-year-old Molly Schmelzle of
Arcata, who negotiated the grueling 70.3 course in a fast, 5:05:53
to capture her first Barb’s Race title.
This year’s 10th anniversary race will feature some special
festivities, including a cake and sparkling cider celebration at
the pre-race course talk on Friday, July 29, gift bags for
participants with an assortment of products and goodies, and
special commemorative medals.