What is Triathlon?
The first recorded triathlon was in California on September 24, 1974. It was organised by the San Diego Track and Field Club at Mission Bay and was created as an alternative to the rigors of athletic training on the track. Since this, Triathlon has developed into one of the fastest growing sports in the world, and one that can be enjoyed by all ages and abilities.
Triathlon is an activity that combines swimming, cycling, and running in one event. The Olympic, or “standard” distance in triathlon is a 1500 metre swim, 40 kilometre bike, and 10 kilometre run.
There are many variations of a Triathlon or multisport event, the table below gives a good overview of the various types of events and distances:
|
Type |
Name |
Distance |
|
Triathlon |
Enticer / Novice |
Swim – less than 750m Ride – less than 20km Run – less than 5km |
|
Sprint |
Swim – 750m Ride – 20km Run – 5km |
|
|
Olympic or Classic |
Swim – 1500m Ride – 40km Run – 10km |
|
|
Long Course / Half Iron Distance |
Swim – between 2500 and 3800m Ride – between 80km and 120km Run – between 20km and 30km |
|
|
Iron Distance |
Swim – 3800m Ride – 180km Run – 42km |
|
|
Duathlon |
Enticer / Novice |
Run – less than 5km Ride – less than 30km Run – less than 5km |
|
Sprint Distance |
Run – 5km Ride – 30km Run – 5km |
|
|
Standard Distance |
Run – 10km Ride – 40km Run – 5km |
|
|
Long Course |
Run – 10km Ride – 60km Run – 10km |
|
|
Aquathlon |
Various Distances |
Swim - run or Swim – run - swim |
Triathlons can be completed as an individual event, or a team event.
Triathlons are organised through independent events organisers, state triathlon associations and clubs. They are run at local, state, national and international levels. Triathlon events in Australia range from enticer or novice events right through to ITU World Championship races.
One reason why Triathlon is so appealing to all is because of its unique “age group” concept that is built into the very fabric of the sport. All Triathlon events are traditionally divided into 5 year age categories, so you will take part in the same race as your friends, your colleagues and your family regardless of their age and ability.
Triathlon truly is a proud sport for all. Have a read of the Triathlon Pathway to see how you can get involved.
