Residents running, paddling and pedaling in September’s Contoocook Carry will use as much energy as they can to get to the finish line.

This year, their physical energy will turn to heating energy, as 75 percent of the proceeds from this year’s race will be given to Hopkinton Human Services to help those in need of fuel assistance due to the skyrocketing cost of oil.

“For the last few years, we’ve tried to give most of the proceeds to human services for all needs,” said Mary Congoran, one of the race’s organizers. “Last winter, I was looking out my window seeing us getting hit so hard with snow and cold weather, and it was just getting to me. I knew there were people needing fuel assistance.”

The sixth annual triathlon takes place Sunday, Sept. 21, featuring a 2-mile run, 5-mile paddle and 14-mile bicycle ride. Racers can sign up as individuals or teams, with a prize table at the end of the race set up to give each racer a reward for completing the course.

While 75 percent of the proceeds will go to fuel assistance, the remaining 25 percent will be donated to Hopkinton High School’s Interact Club, a group of students dedicated to community service.

“I usually try wherever possible to have the youth be able in some way to give back,” said Congoran. “(The Interact Club) helps with the race and offers prizes like babysitting, car washing, lawn mowing and things like that to give to participants.”

Congoran said each year she sees the triathlon bring out the best in residents, and not just financially.

In response to the sponsorship letter Congoran sent out, one resident agreed to donate dry, split wood for the prize table.

“That letter isn’t meant to always draw money out of the pockets of everyone,” said Congoran. “It lets your neighbors know that you care and you’re trying to help in a crisis situation. It isn’t always money.”

The race isn’t designed to be highly competitive, as it is meant to be a fun way to raise money for a cause in town.

“It’s great because we have some super athletes that come also. I like to believe everyone is coming this year for fuel assistance, to help their community,” Congoran said. “We have had people from Vermont, Maine and Massachusetts. They understand, too. It’s never going to be a big-time fancy race, but it’s meant to be down home and to do a lot for the community.”

Last year, the race raised about $2,000, and while Congoran said she hasn’t set monetary goals in the past, she hopes to raise a large amount this year to help residents in need.

“We definitely are really trying to raise a good bit more this year,” she said. “So many good things happen that I haven’t always focused on the funds. This year, whether people can put together a team or not, if they can find a way to help their neighbors, that’s what we’re after.”