Loud Challenge fireworks a ‘first world problem’

PENTICTON – There has been buzz around town that some people are less than thrilled about the midnight fireworks that followed the Challenge Penticton triathlon Sunday.

Several Facebook posts suggest the loud fireworks woke them from their slumbers Sunday night, while others barely noticed..

“I am that ‘younger generation’ and midnight on a Sunday was a bit frustrating when you have to get up very early for work,” said Ken Paton. “I understand the celebration. And I respect the athletes and their dedication and achievements. Maybe 10 p.m. next year is all, if they have to do it on a Sunday night.”

Others, however: Meh.

“Huh, I thought it was weird thunder (half asleep). Point is it could have been,” said Jenny Burton. “It's a first world problem.”

Anyone who has been around town for a few years knows the post-race fireworks are a sort of triathlon tradition. Fireworks were absent last year because it was the inaugural Challenge race that couldn't afford them, said Simone Blais, the city’s communications director. But funds were set aside this year so the tradition could continue, she said.

Blais said feedback is always considered and the city will pass along feedback from residents to event organizers. Only been a few complaints were made to the city.

What do you think?

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To contact the reporter for this story, email Meaghan Archer at marcher@infotelnews.ca or call 250-488-3065. To contact the editor, email mjones@infotelnews.ca or call 250-718-2724.