Mountain Man Tri Challenge returns

THE popular Gloucester Mountain Man Tri Challenge returns on Sunday 14 September, running from 8am to 2pm.

This unique event is different from a normal triathlon in that it consists of mountain biking, kayaking and a cross-country run.

The first of the three legs is a 22km mountain bike ride along mountain and 4WD roads, creek beds, cattle tracks, rainforest and open country.

The second leg consists of an 11km kayak paddle down the Barrington River, and the final leg is a run of nine kilometres, mostly off-road, back into Gloucester.

“The bike and run legs are partly through private properties and we are grateful for the cooperation of the owners,” said Race Director Sam de Witte.

“Preparations are going well and, as in previous years, we are getting great support and enthusiasm from local businesses and the local community.

“We are also appreciative of all the volunteers that make this event such a success, and we could still do with a few more.”

Race participants can choose to either be part of a team or attempt all three legs.

The mountain bike section gets underway in Boundary Road before the riders head down Bucketts Road, eventually ending up at Rocky Crossing, before jumping into their kayaks to paddle down the Barrington River to the Barrington Bridge to start the run back to Gloucester.

Organisers pitch the event as being about “opportunity and completion – not competition”.

“Our aim also is to unite people through collective achievement and a common appreciation of the outdoors.”

Last year’s male winner was Dan Stein, with Corinne Stephenson first across the line in the female division.

Thomas Coombe won the junior division while the first locals home last year were Brett Radford, Jules Kitchener and Kim Haschek.

For more information look for Gloucester Mountain Man Tri Challenge on Humantix or call Sam de Witte on 0417 656 201.

By John WATTS