Get into shape by training for the X-DIRT Triathlon Challenge
Planning on getting into shape in 2014 – why not start training and participating in the X-DIRT Triathlon Challenge
Planning on getting into shape in 2014 – why not start training and participating in the X-DIRT Triathlon Challenge – an exciting and unique triathlon competition which started in December last year and continues at the beginning of February?
Comprising three disciplines, swimming, cycling and running, with a unique aspect that competitors can choose to do their cycle discipline either on the road or off-road, it (the X-DIRT Challenge) is an ideal way to get fit and tone-up after over indulging during the festive season.
As each race consists of a 600m swim, 20km cycle or 16km mountain bike stage and 5km run leg races offer the professional triathlete, as well as the weekend warrior a challenge, but also one that is achievable for first-time multi-sport enthusiasts – especially if they start training now.
The first race of the New Year takes place at Herron Banks, Vanderbijlpark on Sunday, February 2, with the action then moving to Roodeplaat Dam, just outside Pretoria, on Sunday, March 2 with the final event of the Challenge taking place at Buffelspoort Dam on Sunday, March 30.
An interesting aspect of the competition is that participants can either enter individually or in a two-member team with both team members required to complete all three disciplines and finish within two minutes of each other to be eligible for a placing.
To make it a fun day out for the entire family and help get children active X-DIRT Triathlon Challenge events also include a kiddies race which takes place prior to the main event.
For safety – and to keep it fun – the children’s stamina will only be tested over short swim, mountain bike (no road cycle) and run distances starting at 8am on race days followed by the main event – for junior (16-19), open and senior division athletes – kicking off at 9am.
It is also worth noting that by participating in the X-DIRT Triathlon Challenge Discovery Health members can earn up to 4250 Discovery Vitality Points and the competition is also being televised on SuperSport.
Entries
To be a part of the action enter online now at www.xdirt.co.za with pre-entry costing R290 (including TSA day license fee & excluding timing chip hire) for individuals and R580 per team. Late entries will be accepted on race day from 6am at an increased fee of R310 (individuals) and R620 (teams). TSA members can participate at R240 (pre-entry) and R260 (late entry).
Triathletes who may have entered all the X-DIRT Triathlon Challenge events online last year are requested to check that they have the correct dates and venues as the original schedule for the competition has had to be amended. This was necessitated after the December 15 race at Roodeplaat Dam was postponed due to Tshwane Metro Police being unable to assist with road safety for the event, as they were all deployed for former President, Nelson Mandela’s funeral.
For further details go to www.xdirt.co.za or call 082 568 0301 (Corné) / 082 769 2663 (Kyle) or send an email to info@xdirt.co.za
Apart from a great way to get into shape the X-DIRT Triathlon Challenge is also a great family event to participate in as married couple, Riana and Andy Robertson can attest too and both can be expected to shine at the race at Herron Banks, Vanderbijlpark on Sunday, February 2. (Photograph by Yolanda van der Stoep)
