SPORT FESTIVAL MAKES A SPLASH
ORGANISERS are making final preparations for this year’s new-look Townsville Triathlon and Multisport Festival.
The festival, which includes the classic triathlon and 2019 world age group qualifier, will this year feature an “off road” weekend at Pallarenda on August 24-25.
Olympic swimming star Mack Horton will also be guest of honour at tomorrow’s night’s Optus Dinners Stars at Strand Park, along with Townsville Fire star and Olympic silver medallist Abby Bishop.
More than 900 competitors have registered for the festival, which has drawn national and international competitors.
“What’s great about the festival is that it’s a community-owned event, every dollar goes back into the local community,” said Townsville Triathlon and Multisport Festival president Jamie Fitzpatrick.
“It generates a lot of economic benefits to Townsville, and just as importantly it promotes an important health and lifestyle message.
“What makes this festival so popular I think is the fact there are different options for people to choose from.
“It’s a chance for the people who walk the ‘hill’ or go for their morning runs to actually compete in an event that has all the atmosphere of an elite triathlon.”
Registrations are still open for the event, and organisers will accept registrations on the day.
“We’re not going to turn anyone away,” Mr Fitzpatrick said.
“So there’s still an opportunity for people to register, and we’ve already got healthy numbers.”
Other events to be raced across the weekend include the national championship duathlon, Kids Tri, Tri4women and the elite mile run.
A pre-race briefing will be held on Saturday at 7am before the action begins with the duathlon national championship at 7.15am, followed by the classic triathlon at 7.45am.