Imagine this: diving into the Potomac at the Washington Harbor, swimming south to the Lincoln Memorial in the midst of other sleek swimmers like yourself, then jumping on your high-tech bike, zipping into Rock Creek Park and up through the Zoo and then a second climb at Ross Avenue in a pack of cyclists.

Just as you are about to expire, you downhill to the start and repeat this thigh-burring loop. Next, as your body screams for a rest, you dismount and run the Mall with your crazy cohorts, circling Congress the Library of Congress before a sprint back to the finish at the steps of the Lincoln Memorial.

This beauty, insanity, hilarity is the dream of Charles Brodsky, the hopeful founder of The Nations Triathlon – an Olympic distance triathlon he is trying to put together for Saturday, September 16, 2006.

“Trying” being the operative word as he’s had challenges at every step of the way. From the National Park Service, to DC Police, to the squeamish who are still at that first paragraph when I said “diving into the Potomac” and shaking their heads.

Before they start with their usual alarmist chatter, do note that extensive water testing has been done to ensure swim safety and this is also the river they “swim” in every night when they shower.

Still, the entire DC triathlon community, from the DC Tri Club, to little ole Olympic triathlete me, have great hope that Charles will prevail.

We will know on August 14th, when Charles reaches the go/no go date he’s set. Until then, if you’re like me and would love to race past pandas in the Zoo or tourists on the Mall, pre-register to get a spot in line.

This post appeared in its original form at DC Metblogs