Events
Philip Wareing Memorial Multisport Triathlon at St Arnaud, Lake Rotoiti, Nelson Lakes -- Kayak 8km or Swim 1.5km, Cycle 40km & Run 10km
A must do multisport & standard distance triathlon race on the "best" (well certainly the most scenic) course in New Zealand. Normally held on the last of the statutory holidays after New Years day or on the first weekend of the New Year.
Named after a dedicated club member who, along with his wife & daughter, lost his life in the Lewis Pass whilst returning to Nelson on Coast to Coast weekend back in 1997.
2008 Race is Sunday 6th January
About the Event
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This event begins with a kayak of 8km (or a 1.5km swim) on the picturesque Lake Rotoiti (in Kerr Bay) in the Nelson Lakes National Park. The mountains of the Southern Alps with there bush clad lower slopes make an amazing backdrop to this incredible venue.
Kayakers head up the lake to the confluence of the Buller River then return to the starting point at Kerr Bay. The swimmers complete a 3 lap triangular course close to the front beach of Kerr Bay. Wetsuits are required with the water temperature normally around 18oC. The cycle is an out & back (2 lap) course that firstly heads towards Murchison then returns through St Arnaud on to Tophouse then down the hill towards Blenheim (turn-around by the Rainbow skifield turn-off) before returning back to St Arnaud. Something for everyone on this course, some flat sections, fast downhills & a steady climb back. |
The run is based on a 4 lap course around the streets of St Arnaud with each lap coming back through transition. Again includes a small climb & a downhill on each lap with part of the course through tranquil native bush.
An after race barbeque & prizegiving is always a great finish to this great race.
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Additionally for those participants wanting different options there is a duathlon (Run 2.5km, Cycle 40km, Run 10km) & a sprint triathlon of Swim 750m, Cycle 20km & Run 5km.
This event was first held in 1997 and now established itself as an important event in the South Island triathlon & multisport calendar. Many multisporters use it as there final race before the Coast to Coast with a number going on to record excellent top 10 finishes at Coast to Coast and swim triathletes use it as a build up for their summer National racing campaigns. |
