Tasmania’s premier winter multisport event is set to make a return in the coming weeks, with organisers hoping to exceed last year’s competitor numbers.
The Winter Challenge will be held in Orford on August 10, featuring a 10km paddle, 15km mountain bike ride, 32km road bike ride and a 10km trail run.
Co-Director Tim Harmsen said the event aims to build on last year’s successful comeback after a five-year hiatus.
“We want to ride the momentum of the return of the Winter Challenge last year,” Harmsen said.
“Already from Early Bird entries we are seeing 50% new competitors and 50% returning.”
The event allows participants to compete solo, in pairs or in teams of four, attracting athletes from across Tasmania and interstate.
Last year’s team division winner Georgia Nesbitt will return with her all-female team, the Oyster Catchers.
“It’s a really good way to get someone who’s into paddling but they’re not a good runner, or someone who’s into running but doesn’t like riding bikes or paddling,” she said.
The event begins with a kayak in Prosser Bay, followed by a road bike along Rheban Road, mountain bike on private property and finishing with a trail run to Spring Beach.
Harmsen said the event’s is a great boost for people during the colder months.
“The Winter Challenge gives people a good excuse to get off the couch through winter and train for the August event,” he said.
A special family event, The Great Aussie Egg-Off, will also be held on the same day, with details to be announced in coming weeks.
More information can be found at www.winterchallengestas.com.
