The Julie Hughes Triathlon, created in partnership by Bill and Carol Hughes and Siouxha Tokman in 1985, is a tribute to Julie Hughes. Julie lost her battle with cancer at the age of 15, February 1985. During Julie’s treatment and through a period of remission she talked with her swim coach, Siouxha, and said one day she wanted to do a triathlon. Julie was never able to realize that dream and it took Siouxha and Julie’s parents no-time at all to know that a triathlon in Sitka was just what Julie would like to see. May 1985 was the first event, and to this day 30 plus years later, the Julie Hughes Triathlon is still one of the largest and longest running events in Sitka. The event consists of a 5 mile run, 14 mile bike ride, and 1,000 yard swim. There is a special short course for the 12 and under participants. Athletes can compete on a team or as an individual. Proceeds from this event are donated to the Sitka Cancer Survivors Network.