Top athletes to attempt long-distance racing at Tweed Enduro

A TEST of grit and determination will see some of the top athletes from across the region turn out for the annual Tweed Enduro long course event.

The event comprises a 1.9km swim, 90km cycle and 21.1km run, with hundreds of people already registered for the event at Pottsville on Saturday, February 14.

It is popular among professional triathletes and attracts rising stars from clubs across the Northern Rivers and south-east Queensland.

Ballina coach and professional triathlete Tim Van Berkel used the event last year as part of his training for the world championships in New Zealand.

It offers Olympic, Sprint, and Aquabike competitions with the flat course catering to first-timers and people who only attempt longer distances once a year.

The sprint distance is popular, with team entries accepted across most of the divisions.

Aquabike competition suits athletes returning from injury or those who prefer to skip the run leg.

The Enduro is part of a popular group of events run by NX Sports, which attract hundreds of competitors to similar triathlon and ocean swim events at Byron Bay, Kingscliff and Yamba.

Race director Mike Crawley said the emphasis is on participation and making it an inclusive event for the community.

“The Enduro was created in 2015 as a community sporting event that provided local triathletes a pathway past the Olympic distance,” he said.

“It gives a personal approach and celebrates athlete accomplishment for many who are competing on the long course for the first time.

“Volunteers are the backbone of the events and we’ve always had great support on the Tweed.”

The Enduro has injected millions into the local economy and supports the Cabarita Surf Life Saving Club, Pottsville Beach Neighbourhood Centre, Murwillumbah Venturer Scouts, and the local men’s shed.

Each year it raises additional funds for clubs or groups in need and hires local people for catering roles.

There are cash prizes for the top three finishers while all entries in the long course events will receive a free triathlon bag.

The first-timers section allows competitors the chance to use flippers in the swim.

Registrations for the event can be made at nxsports.org/nxevent/tweed-enduro