NZs Taupo plays host to triathlon event: 20-02-2008
Taupo in New Zealand is set to host the first triathlon event of the season, with up to 1,500 contestants vying for US$50,000 in prize money.
The event, which takes place next month, is set in the beautiful surroundings of Lake Taupo - the biggest lake in Australasia - and is comprised of three disciplines.
A 2.4-mile swim in the lake will be followed by a 112-mile cycle ride, which will be finished off with a 26-mile jog.
More than a week of warm-up events has been planned for the build-up to the race and on the Monday after the meet, a party will be thrown in honour of all the participants.
The town of Taupo is fully geared up for the influx of spectators for the event - it usually expects up to 20,000 guests visiting for the competition each year, doubling its population size.
The race begins at 7.00am (local time) and participants have 17 hours in which to complete the course. The current fastest time is under nine hours.