Best in the West Triathlon Festival
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The water temperature in early September was previously 70-72°F, HOWEVER, in 2022 new regulations were put in place regarding water level management. Green Peter reservoir which feeds Foster reservoir must now be drawn down earlier in the summer. The result is much cooler water temperatures. We now expect temperatures around 58-60°F and recommend a wetsuit.
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Just east of the city of Sweet Home, OR, Foster Reservoir is a popular recreation destination for mid-valley residents, providing a pleasing Cascade foothills backdrop for a variety of water recreation activities. Foster Reservoir measures over three miles in length and was created in the late 1960s by the construction of the Foster Dam on the South Santiam River. 



​Water Temperature History
Race Weekend:
​

2023  66°F
2022  70°F Friday night, 58°F Saturday morning.
2021 was virtual
2020 72°F
​2019 73°F
2018 73°F

2018 72°F
2017 72°F
2016 68°F
2015 70°F
2014 73°F
Swimmer at Best in the West Triathlon Festival at Foster Lake
FAQ: Do I need a wet suit?
We follow USAT wetsuit regulations. With the changes to water management at Foster Lake, we recommend you come prepared with a wetsuit.
  • Under 58°F, wetsuit REQUIRED
  • 58-65°F wetsuit recommended but optional
  • 66-78°F wetsuit optional
  • 78.1 – 83.9°F, competitors may wear wetsuits but will not be eligible for awards
  • 84°F or above, participants may NOT wear wetsuits

Want to rent a wet suit? We have rentals available. More information about rentals.
In the event of exceptionally warm water conditions, USAT regulations will be followed:

​
USAT Competitive Rulebook, Article IV
4.4 Wet suits. Each age group participant shall be permitted to wear a wet suit without penalty in any event sanctioned by USA Triathlon up to and including a water temperature of 78 degrees Fahrenheit. When the water temperature is greater than 78 degrees, but less than 84 degrees Fahrenheit, age group participants may wear a wet suit at their own discretion, provided however that participants who wear a wet suit within this temperature range shall not be eligible for prizes or awards. Age group participants shall not wear wet suits in water temperatures equal to or greater than 84 degrees Fahrenheit.
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​The weather in September is usually dry and mild. The average high for September is 78°F, the low, 48°F. 

The weather on race day usually starts off cool and overcast, breaking to sun in the afternoon. We wear warm ups to transition in the morning, but tri suits for the race. On cooler years, arm warms are sufficient for warmth. On hotter years, the ice and cold towels at aid stations work great. 

Temperature History
Race Weekend

​

           High   Low
2023   ??°F   ??°F
2022   89°F   51°F
2021   85°F   56°F
2020   71°F   49°F
2019   69°F   60°F
2018   85°F   43°F

2017   81°F   60°F
2016   90°F   47°F
2015   93°F   51°F
2014   98°F   48°F
2013   77°F   53°F
2012   95°F   53°F
2011   94°F   53°F
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  • Home
  • Registration
  • Info
  • Courses
    • Park Map/Transition
    • Course Preview
    • Half-Iron
    • Olympic
    • Sprint
    • Super Sprint
    • Kids Splash and Dash
    • Swims
    • Bike Rides
    • Half-Marathon
    • 10k
    • 5k
    • Beer Mile Relay
  • Volunteer
  • Results
    • Photos
  • Sponsors
  • Contact
    • Best in the West Events
    • FAQ
    • Partner Races