Course change for Mangawhai Tri

Organisers say it’s looking like numbers for this year’s Mangawhai Triathlon may increase on last year’s 197. With limited space available for transition, entrant numbers will be limited to 220.

A large contingent of entries for the February 16 contest have come in from the Auckland area, but also as far as Cambridge, Palmerston North and Christchurch though the majority are from around Northland.

Male and female 2013 Open Swim winners Matt Taylor and Samantha Bradley are still yet to enter, however first and second place getters in the Vet Mens Swim – Stephen Farrell and Mike Hardiman – are set to battle it out for first place again with only 11 seconds separating them at last year’s event

This year’s event includes a new cycle and run course with the finish line moving to the beach to allow for more room in transition. Participants will either swim 500m or kayak 1.5km, followed by a 20km cycle and 5km run. Typically a majority of participants enter as individual and complete all three disciplines however there is a growing number of teams taking part where participants each complete one of the three disciplines as a relay.

Many enter and participate just for the love of the sport while some are fiercely competitive and there are growing numbers of youngsters also being attracted to triathlons. It is also an entertaining event for spectators as they cheer on family members and friends.

■ northlandtri.co.nz