Media Release
11 January 2007

Register Now for Rotorua's National Triathlon Series event

Budding triathletes have less than three weeks to get their registrations in for the fifth event in the Contact Energy National Triathlon Series.

Part of the Bike Vegas Blue Lake Multisport Festival, from 27-28 January, the Rotorua event takes place on Sunday 28 January 2007 at Rotorua's Blue Lake.

Triathlon New Zealand Chief Executive Officer Dave Beeche, said the National Triathlon Series is New Zealand's only national series of events for the nation's fastest growing sport - triathlon. Events have so far been held in New Plymouth, Auckland and Nelson, seeing more than 750 competitors taking to the start line.

"The inaugural National Series, sponsored by Contact Energy, gives all New Zealanders over the age of 13 the opportunity to take part in a triathlon regardless of their age, ability or location," Dave said.

"Many triathlon events are targeted at specific age groups or are only run in the main centres whereas the National Series spans the length and breadth of New Zealand."

Rotorua will host two races, a Tri My Sport participation race and a Contact Energy New Zealand Cup race.

The Tri My Sport participation race caters to the first time competitor, and features a 350 metre swim or a three kilometre kayak at Blue Lake, a 16km road cycle leg, and a 5.5 kilometre run.

The Contact Energy New Zealand Cup race is a medium to advanced level competition open to anyone over the age of 18, and includes a 1.5 kilometre swim at Blue Lake, a 40 kilometre bike, and an 11 kilometre forest run leg.

Participants in this race will compete for prizes and also accumulate points, with the Contact Energy New Zealand Cup being awarded to the major point holder at the completion of the series.

Dave said the National Series comprises nine events, which are being held over the summer months from November 2006 to March 2007. The fourth event will be held in Christchurch this Saturday [13 January] and further events will take place in Kinloch, Napier, Whangamata and Wellington.

"The three events we've had so far have each been a great success and have seen competitors of all ages and abilities out there getting involved in the sport," Dave said.

"The Rotorua event is set to be another great day."

To register for the Rotorua National Series event visit www.triathlon.org.nz
Photo caption: Competitors start the Nelson National Series race on 16 December 2006.

ENDS

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