Sasol’s annual Cross Triathlon, open to all athletes, will kick off at the Emerald Resort and Casino in Vanderbijlpark on 24 February 2013. The multi-sport event offers something for all ages and levels of fitness.

The triathlon series incorporates three race options: a Sprint Triathlon comprising a 500m swim, 10km mountain bike ride and a 3km run; a Standard Triathlon made up of a 1km swim, 22km mountain bike ride and a 5km run; or a Duathlon comprising a 3km run, 22km mountain bike ride followed by a 5km run.

In addition, the Sasol Kids Duathlon series includes events aimed at two age categories. The first is a 10 to 15-year age group race, comprising a 500m trail run, 3km mountain bike ride followed by another 500m run. The second is a fun event for five to nine-year olds, which entails a 200m trail run, an 800 mountain bike ride, finishing off with a 100m trail run.

The Vanderbjilpark triathlon will be followed by the second event which takes place at Dickenson Park in Vereeniging on 17 March 2013 and the final event on 24 March 2013 at Abrahamsrust, Sasolburg.

Karin Fourie, Manager Corporate Affairs: Corporate Marketing at Sasol, Sasolburg said the series forms part of Sasol’s drive to encourage communities to engage in sporting activities and pursue healthier lifestyles. “The Kids Duathlon and fun run allow families to come out in force and enjoy a day of active fun in an outdoor environment,” she said.

Up for grabs at each event are several prizes, as well as R12 000, which will be divided amongst the various individual and team category winners. The categories include: swim individual (16 to 19), open (20 to 39), veteran (40 to 49) and Master (50+) – male and female; duathlon individual – open male and open female; and teams – open, corporate and schools.

According to Fourie, the one-lap route in Vanderbijlpark is fast and takes place on a jeep and single track. “The Free State is known for its relatively flat and fast routes, which give athletes the opportunity to clock up some personal best times. In addition, they will be able to enjoy excellent athletic or recreational facilities and activities,” she said.

Pre-entries can be submitted electronically through www.cyclelab.com and routes can be viewed on the same website. Entries on the day open at 06:15 and the race commences at Emerald Resort & Casino (GPS coordinates: S26 43 54 E27 52.55) at 08:15. Route maps will be available at registration.