DURBAN North resident and 2016 Olympic bronze medallist Henri Schoeman was one of the big winners at the inaugural Splash Tri Dash which took place at Amanzimtoti Main Beach.
The event, which attracted hundreds of spectators and some of the country’s top competitors also saw event organiser Bridget Theunissen (22) win the ladies’ title.
Theunissen is also set to represent South Africa in the short-distance triathlon at the U23 World Championships in Spain.
The Splash Tri Dash, is a lap-racing event based on the hugely successful international Super League Triathlon racing.
Individuals and teams competed in the 3×3 repeat triathlon, starting with a 200m ocean swim, a 3km bike, and a 1km run on the promenade – aiming for a share of the R40 000 prize purse.
Schoeman took honours in the individual race, as well as pipping the 1st team (Toti Lifeguards A) to the finish line while Theunissen took the ladies’ title and came third overall, just behind upcoming junior Nathan Foster.
“It was an exciting race, and to have format in South Africa is awesome. I love this kind of racing, and it’s so good for the development of our juniors and triathlon.”
Race director and Mount Edgecombe resident Glen Gore said he was delighted with the turnout and overall race experience:
“The athletes gave us some positive feedback, and when an athlete of the likes of Henri Schoeman, who has raced all around the globe, tells you he had fun, that pretty much makes your day. We’re coming back in 2025 bigger and better for sure,” he said.
Also showing support on the day was the Princess Charlene of the Monaco Foundation with local ambassadors, Mhlengi Gwala and Terence Parkin, competing in the event.
For more from Northglen News, follow us on Facebook, X or Instagram. You can also check out our videos on our YouTube channel or follow us on TikTok.
Click to subscribe to our newsletter – here
