The latest in the Contact Tri Woman Series took place in Karapiro on the weekend with Event Manager Adele Holmes singing the praises of the locals and the course as over 150 participants from all ages and backgrounds took part in triathlon and duathlon, many for the first time.
"This is the first time the event has been held here at Lake Karapiro after previously being held at Waikato University," said Holmes.
"The response from everyone has been superb, from marshals to volunteers to sponsors but most importantly the participants they have all given it the thumbs up as a safe, competitor friendly and easy course for the first timers.
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| Contact TriWoman at Karapiro (Photo: Marathon Photos) |
We had just over 150 on the start line and many of them were first timers. There were also a good number of 'experienced' triathletes sprinkled in amongst them with the local club supporting the event well, which helped some of the nervous ladies ease their way through the course I'm sure!
The Contact TriWoman Series now moves to Rotorua with an event held there next weekend. Holmes says numbers are likely to be boosted by many of the first timers at Karapiro today who enjoyed their first experience of triathlon.
"After the success of today we have had plenty of today's participants also commit to Rotorua next week as it is 'just over the hill' so we are looking forward to an even bigger and better day there on another stunning course. It seems once the women have completed that first event they are able to smash any myths or perceived barriers they thought existed and take part with confidence, knowing they are going to complete the course in comfort and with a smile on their face as they cross the line."
Next up for the Series is the stunning location of Blue Lake in Rotorua, home to many events including XTERRA and the Contact Tri Series, now home to a Contact TriWoman Series event.
Holmes says the course and surroundings will be stunning for all taking part, especially the 'newbies'.
"Blue Lake is just beautiful, I can't think of a better place to try your first triathlon or duathlon. The water is incredible to swim in and unlike some beach swims there is less chance of a wave or swell to increase the nerves. The bike is largely flat and avoids the hill back towards town with the course taking participants out towards Te Wairoa on a beautiful lakeside ride. It will be awesome."
Contact TriWoman Series 2009/10
Remaining Venues and Dates
For further information visit www.tri.co.nz
Blue Lake, Rotorua, 21 February
Start Time: 8am
Distances:
Triathlon - 300m swim / 9km cycle / 3km run/walk
Duathlon - 1.5km run/walk / 9km cycle / 3km run/walk
Course Maps Click Here
Lido Aquatic Centre, Palmerston North
27 February
Point Chevalier, Auckland
21 March
PowerCo Aquatic Centre, Hawera
28 March
Umupuia Park, Maraetai, Auckland
11 April
QEII Park, Christchurch
18 April
