The 23rd Byron Bay Triathlon is set to take place on Saturday, May 12.
Organisers expect more than 1,000 athletes in their ‘Tempta’, ‘Sprint’ and Olympic distances together with 100 juniors, many of whom will be competing in their very first triathlon.
The course, which includes a revised cycle leg and a run under the famous Cape Byron Lighthouse, ‘provides a unique setting for athletes of all abilities to compete,’ they say.
The Men’s podium is shaping up to be a battle of the Northern Rivers, with 2017 Mens Open runner up Matt Slee from Suffolk Park back with the gold in his sights, as well as local favourites Harry Jones and Jack Orr. Holly Grice is also back to defend her 2017 title, facing strong competition from Courtney Gilfillan.
Race Director Mike Crawley says the Byron Bay Tri is ‘a celebration of the local area, with athletes able to relax in the morning, have a midday kick off, and celebrate into the night along the beautiful Byron beachside’.
‘It is the perfect end to the triathlon season,’ he said.
‘We are also excited to see so much enthusiasm from local businesses, offering promotions and incentives to athletes to welcome them to the community and increase economic benefits throughout town,’ he added.
Event organisers are predicting an increase in registration with athletes still feeling the buzz of the Commonwealth Games.
The Byron Bay Surf Life Saving Club is once again managing water safety while the Byron Bay Scouts and Byron Bay Cycle Club will benefit from fundraising.
The event organisers acknowledge local residents and businesses may experience some inconvenience caused by road closures from 11.00am to 3.30pm towards Suffolk Park and until 4.30pm in the CBD.
More information can be found at www.byronbaytri.com.au.
