Trick or Tri at Merrill Ranch

Trick or Tri at Merrill Ranch is a Halloween-themed sprint triathlon in Florence, Arizona, based at Merrill Ranch Parkside Community Center. The adult triathlon starts with a 400-meter pool swim, then moves to a flat 12-mile bike ride and a 3-mile run. 4 Peaks Racing organizes the event, with a 7:30 a.m. start and entry fees listed in the $85 to $125 range. The race is built for more than one type of athlete: racers can choose the full triathlon, an aquabike, a duathlon, or a kids' triathlon. The bike leg has about 52 meters of elevation gain, so the main challenge is more about steady effort than climbing. The Halloween timing gives it a lighter, family-friendly feel, while the short pool swim and sprint distance make it approachable for first-time triathletes as well as experienced racers who want a fast morning event.