There’s never been a better time to get into triathlon than right now.
The South African triathlon landscape has exploded in recent years with a number of top class events added to the calendar.
But while an Ironman or even an Ironman 70.3 might seem just out of reach for the first-timer, the Standard Bank 5150 African Triathlon Series offers the perfect entry point into the sport.
With two 5150 races already on the calendar, seasoned athletes and newcomers alike have a choice of races to start their triathlon journeys.
The 5150 series consists of a 1.5km swim, 40km bike ride and 10km run, known as standard or Olympic distance.
The first ever 5150 race to be staged in South Africa, the Standard Bank 5150 Bela Bela Triathlon, takes place for the fifth time this year on August 22 in Warmbaths, a Forever Resort.
The event has become one of the most popular and enjoyable triathlons in South Africa, known for being achievable for novice athletes while providing a real test for professionals.
The bushveld setting of Warmbaths, adds a unique feel to the event, unlike anything experienced at any other triathlon in South Africa.
The resort also makes this one of the most family-friendly race destinations with many athletes making the most out of the trip by having a family weekend getaway in a beautiful part of the country.
The flagship event in the Standard Bank 5150 African Triathlon Series is the Standard Bank 5150 Ekurhuleni African Championship taking place on November 1 at Germiston Lake.
This race has seen some of South Africa’s brightest young prospects and some seasoned veterans take to the stage while hundreds of first timers entered the triathlon arena – many of which have gone on to compete at Ironman 70.3 events.
The Standard Bank 5150 Ekurhuleni African Championship in 2014 introduced a brand new bike course which created a fair and enjoyable race for both professionals and amateurs alike.
Taking place for the third time, this race has become a stand-out race on the calendar.
What the Standard Bank 5150 African Triathlon Series offers is the chance to experience a top quality triathlon, similar to what you will find at an Ironman or Ironman 70.3 giving athletes that “big race” atmosphere.
For those athletes who aim for the longer distance events, the Standard Bank 5150 African Triathlon Series is the ideal warm up as the 5150 races adopt the same rules as an Ironman 70.3 or Ironman.
This gives athletes the chance to become familiar with areas such as navigating transition, as well as drafting.
Entries to both the Standard Bank 5150 Bela Bela Triathlon and the Standard Bank 5150 Ekurhuleni African Championship are open.
Individual, as well as team entries are welcome.
With both these events having become popular fixtures on the South African triathlon calendar, capacity fields are once again expected.
The Standard Bank 5150 Bela Bela Triathlon already has less than 500 entries remaining, showing how popular it has become.
Visit www.ironman.com/5150belabela and www.ironman.com/5150ekurhuleni for more information and to enter.
