The Luray Triathlon kicks off this weekend at Lake Arrowhead. This event draws people into Page County by the thousands and is an economic boost to the Luray community.

Most hotels are sold out and restaurants booked with reservations. Pat O'Brien, the Luray Parks and Recreation Director, estimates the event will bring in more than $125,000 to the community.

Money raised by the event will be dispersed back into the community. The Luray Volunteer Rescue Squad is this year's beneficiary. It will get a percentage of the money generated from the event for a new, larger building for the squad.

There are two events at Lake Arrowhead this weekend. Saturday is the International Triathlon starting at 8 a.m. and the Sprint Triathlon starts Sunday at 9 a.m.

The International Triathlon is the longer event with a 1.5km swim, 25 mile bike, and 10k run. The Sprint Triathlon is just about half that with a 750m swim, 16 mile bike, and 5k run.

Organizers had to cap the event at 600 participants per day. Individuals are allowed to register on race day if there are spots available.