By MATT SCHOOLEY

The coldest months of winter may still be far away, but Hopkinton residents are already looking to help community members by using their legs, paddles and bikes.

For the seventh consecutive year, locals will take part in the Contoocook Carry triathlon on Sunday, Sept. 27.

The event is a 2-mile run, a kayak route down the Contoocook River and a 14-mile bicycle ride through the town.

Proceeds will benefit the town’s fuel assistance program again this year. Last year the event raised about $14,000 through donations and race fees.

“This year will probably be worse than last year economy-wise,” said event organizer Mary Congoran. “It’s one of the events that brings together families, athletes and people just coming out for the cause.”

Following the event, which usually takes competitors about two hours to complete, many racers return to Hopkinton

High School to receive prizes donated by residents.

Many competitors perform the race in teams, often dressing up in costumes to match their team names.

Congoran said volunteers in town also have contributed by helping prepare crates of wood for the wood bank, supplies that in the past have been almost completely used by the end of the winter.

“It just feels good for people to do something good for others with their own hands and their own bodies,” said Congoran. “I’m really proud of our community in whatever amount they give. It’s about the money, but it’s also about seeing how many people are willing to come out and help.”

The race begins rain or shine at 1:30 p.m. at the high school, and race day registration runs from 11:45 a.m. until 1:15 p.m.

Pre-registration information can be found at www.hopkinton-nh.gov under the Contoocook Carry link in the Resident Quick Links section.

Due to the difficult economic times, Congoran said it’s difficult to set expectations for what she hopes to raise this year. Regardless of the total amount raised, Congoran said she is always surprised by the amount of participation.

“These envelopes come in, and you can just tell people wished they could give more,” said Congoran. “But the point is they took the time. They took the time because they are saying that they want to do whatever they can to help.”