The Pacific Radiology Tri NZ National Schools Championship, hosted by Southland Triathlon & Multisport Club, takes place  Thursday 27^th March and Friday 28^th March at the stunning Glendhu Bay in Wānaka.  The event this year is adding a new format of racing based on feedback received from coaches, schools, parents and rangatahi.  A regional mixed-team relay will be happening the day after all individual and school events take place.  This regional relay will have a carnival-type atmosphere with kids representing their region, a promising change that looks to increase participation for all.  This event comprises shorter distances across swim, bike, and run with points given to all who finish.

General Manager of Community at Tri NZ, Anna Russell said “Numbers in this Triathlon event have been surging with this year's event having 21% more participants than it did back in 2023, when the event was held at the same venue.  Performances by the likes of Hayden Wilde on the World stage plus the inclusion of more participation-focused formats have contributed to this increase in numbers”

The championship event on Thursday includes 3 age-grade categories.  U14’s will swim 350m, bike 10km and run 2.5km.  The U16’s will swim 500m, bike 12km and run 3.75km whilst the U19 age group will swim 750m, bike 20km and run 5km.  

More details regarding this exciting event can be found here

Article added: Thursday 20 March 2025