Lobo Aquathlon returns to UNM campus April 18-19

The Lobo Triathlon returns in 2026 with a new format and renewed commitment to fitness and community engagement.

Reimagined as the Lobo Aquathlon because of ongoing campus construction, the event will take place April 18-19 at the University of New Mexico.

The Kids Aquathlon will be held Saturday, April 18, beginning at 8 a.m., with participants starting in waves. The Adult Aquathlon follows Sunday, April 19, also at 8 a.m.

With uncertainty surrounding road conditions on campus, organizers elected to shift to an aquathlon format this year. Participants will complete a run followed by a swim, continuing the event's reverse order to account for variable spring weather.

The adult course features a two-mile run around the UNM campus, finishing on Johnson Field, followed by a 400-meter swim in the UNM Seidler Natatorium. Updated course maps are available on the event website.

There are various divisions for athletes to participate in. All finishers will receive medals, and age-group awards will be presented.

The event also offers a 12-week training program, along with an optional pre- and post-program physical fitness evaluation conducted through the UNM Exercise Physiology Lab. Registration for the race, training program and fitness evaluation is separate.

The aquathlon marks the event's return for the first time since the pandemic. Byron Piatt serves as lead organizer, with support from the UNM Health, Exercise and Sports Sciences Department in the College of Education & Human Sciences.

All proceeds benefit the UNM Health, Exercise and Sports Sciences Youth Camp and graduate student travel. Races and the training program will take place at Johnson Field on the UNM campus in Albuquerque.

For registration and updated information, visit lobotri.unm.edu.