Trainers, bikes, and swimsuits at the ready! Whether you’re a first-timer or a pro, this family-friendly triathlon festival is back for its 12th year of swim, cycle, run and fun!
We’re not going to lie: the word “triathlon” usually strikes the fear of God into us. But if there’s one thing that’s going to persuade us that a 750m swim, 20km bike ride, and 5km run is a good idea, it’s the prospect of doing it in a beautiful setting. Whether you’re a gym rat, weekend warrior, or just pretending to like exercise (no one really loves burpees, right?), this weekend-long family-friendly triathlon festival in beautiful Bintan is shaping up to be the best yet. Oh, and did we mention the crystal-clear waters and white sandy beaches? Now we’re tempted! Time to don those swimsuits, get on your bikes, and start training; you’ve got until 27 May to get your ass in gear.
The setting
With Bintan a mere 50-minute ferry ride from Singapore, it’s the ideal destination whether you’re day-tripping or weekend-breaking. And if you’re a triathlon virgin, the tropical setting is bound to inspire a dash of much needed determination. You’ll find yourself swimming in clear warm waters, cycling through landscaped gardens, and running beside pristine beaches. Heck, with scenery this pretty, you might even forget you’re racing! But if you’re not competing, there’s still plenty to keep you busy at Nirwana Gardens, the luxurious host hotel. Can you say spa trip?
The races
For those of you who think nothing of cracking out an admirable feat of endurance before breakfast, the organisers have added even more sweat-inducing activities to the schedule to keep you pumped the entire weekend. Though race veterans have nothing to fear; familiar classic categories will be returning, including the blue-ribbon Olympic distance race and the shorter sprint distance contest. And for first-timers – or the uber-keen – there are coach-led practice runs in place to ease pre-race jitters. Kids can also take part in youth races scheduled for the final day of fun.
But you don’t need to be a pro to join in; if you don’t fancy attempting an entire triathlon, why not sign up for one of the less intense additions to this year’s schedule? Opt for a 400m or 1000m swim (kids are welcome too) or enter a team into the super-sprint relay. Comprising a 400m swim, 6km bike ride, and a 1.5km run, we predict a fast, fun, and furious stampede for the finish line!
The extra stuff
Worried about what to do with the kids while you’re busy pounding your way ’round the course? We say pop them into the kids club where they will be entertained with elephant rides, foam pools, arts and crafts, and more. Ever wondered why so many triathletes are incorporating yoga into their training schedules? Check out an expert-led session – taking place throughout the weekend – to find out. Finally, be sure to reserve some energy for the Saturday night awards dinner and party. This year, the theme is Bintan Goes Pyjamas. Intrigued? Us too!
The Bintan Triathlon is taking place from 27 to 29 May, sign up here!
This article is sponsored by Bintan Triathlon
