The Midvaal region is set to host a major sporting event later this weekend when the Midvaal Triathlon, which also doubles as the SA Long Distance Triathlon Championships, takes place at Bass Lake in Henley-on-Klip on Sunday.

The event will see athletes from across the country competing for national titles, with long- and short-distance options available.

The long-distance race starts at 7am and consists of a 2km swim, 80km cycle and 20km run. The short-distance and team events start at 7:45am, featuring a 1km swim, 40km cycle and 10km run.

Organiser Glen Gore, a former professional triathlete who trained extensively in the Meyerton area, said he is excited to bring a national-level race to the region.

“It almost feels like I am back home. The routes and surroundings are very familiar to me,” Gore said. He added that support from the Midvaal Municipality has been key to making the event possible.

Bass Lake, known among open-water swimmers for its clean and safe conditions, will host the swim leg.

According to organisers, the race is non-drafting, allowing a range of bicycles including time-trial, road, gravel and mountain bikes. The bike and run routes are described as flat, offering athletes the opportunity to post fast times.

Registration takes place at Bass Lake on Saturday, 21 February, from 12:00 to 16:00, and again on race morning from 05:00 to 06:30.

Limited late entries will be accepted on Saturday.

In addition to individual races, a corporate relay option is also available.