TriLife virtual triathlon making mark

TriLife competitions director, Natasha Cameron, says the aim of the TriLife virtual triathlon series is aimed at keeping triathletes and enthusiasts fit and motivated, in addition to making a contribution to society in light of the coronavirus pandemic.

The series, which started on July 10 and ends August 10, has a number of events with the triathlon (swim, ride, run) being the feature. However, it also includes an aquathlon (swim and run) and a duathlon (run, ride, run).

Participants will also have the option of competing in the triathlon sprint (750m swim, 20km ride and 5km run) or super sprint, which is half the distance of the sprints. There will also be sprint and super sprint competitions for the aquathlon and duathlon events as well.

Competing at their Own Pace

Competitors are allowed to perform task at their own pace and are allowed to have relay partners. They can also compete indoors (threadmill or trainer bike), if they prefer.

“It really includes everyone, If you don’t have a bike or if you can’t ride you can do the aquathlon, if you can’t swim you do the duathlon. Everyone can do it, everyone gets an opportunity, just choose the event that suits you best,” Cameron told The Gleaner.

Following a successful first staging in May, she said the turnout has been even greater, and they want to use the opportunity to garner support for their charity project, as they intend to make a donation of two tablets to the Donald Quarrie High School.

“In light of this (pandemic) we want to give back to society, so we decided to put on a personal race. But also we know students are suffering from not being able to access homework or studies due to lack of electronic devices. So this became our little charity and when we put on the first one, we donated two tablets to the Donald Quarrie High School and the second event is in aid of the same thing, as a lot more students out there need it,” she stated.

Cameron added that they are guided in their competition by the protocol and guidelines set out by the International Triathlon Union (ITU).

“We follow these guidelines as much as possible in all our races, so we stay as close as possible to international standards,” she said.

At the end of the competition participants will receive certificates of participation and medals.