Many entries for park triathlon

Waimarino Bulletin, Volume 5, Issue 18, 29 September 1987, Page 7

Many entries for park triathlon

The response to the entries for the National Park Centennial Mountains to the Sea Triathlon has been great, says Race director Dave Bamford. Over 140 entries have been received with 87 of these being from individuals, the remainder being made up of a variety of teams. Entries have arrived from throughout New Zealand with a strong group heading north from Christchurch. "Several competitors have been trying out the river sections with the times being very dependent on the flow of the river!" said Mr Bamford. "Some have canoed from Whakahoro to Pipiriki in 5 hours - let's hope for some good river flows". The organisers have discussed the triathlon with local Wanganui river jetboat operators. They will try and restrict their operations during the race but if they have to operate they will keep to their right going up the river and their left going down the river. The first section of the race has been described by some as very rough under foot with lots of bog - the route down to Whakapapa^ River is bouldery. Drink stations will be provided for the running sections - a couple for the first section and four on the River Road. The organisers have improved the changeover from the first day's cycle

to the canoe leg at Ohinepa. The cycle section will end with the bikes being left in a paddock next to the road. Competitors run about 300 metres down to the canoes and enter the river, supporter assisted if desired. During the cycling sections marshalls will be located at all significant road intersections. Organisers stress that all cyclists should drive defensively and obey the road code, watching out for car doors, wild goats and spectators. Cyclists must carry out their own repairs without any support. The only spare cycles available will be at Pipiriki. Race registration will be at Tongariro National Park

Visitor Centre (near the Chateau) between 8am and 1pm on Friday 23 October. .lace packs will include race bibs, a programme including a list of competitors and details of the prizes plus any final details. Optional briefings are available at either 4pm in the Park Visitor Centre or 8pm in the Chateau 's Conference Room. A team member or supporter should attend. Details on the prizes are yet to be finalised but the total value of the prizes and sponsors' products will be in excess of $10,000. Prizes will include air travel vouchers, cameras, recreational skills courses and recreational equipment, sleeping bags, packs etc.