Thousands of Sacramento-area residents will participate this week in a peculiar local tradition.

No, not the State Fair, although that’s happening too. It’s Eppie’s Great Race, a 24.67-mile triathlon that combines biking and running with paddling a boat rather than the usual swimming.

The 40th annual Eppie’s will be held Saturday on the American River Parkway. About 2,000 people participate each year, from casual joggers and cruisers to serious contenders.

Some complete the entire course; others form teams to split up the 5.82-mile run, 12.5-mile bike ride and 6.35-mile long paddle, which can be done in either a kayak or a canoe.

The race is named after local restaurant legend Eppie Johnson, 85.

An avid kayaker, Johnson started Eppie’s in 1974 and remains involved in organizing and fundraising.

Proceeds – a total of $1 million so far – have gone to Sacramento County’s Therapeutic Recreation Services, which offers activities for those with physical and mental disabilities.

For more information and to register, visit www.eppiesgreatrace.org.