Summer training for March triathlon

DONE DEAL: Danny Jonas and Rachel O'Connor cement the deal for the New Zealand School Triathlon Championship with Gareth Jones (right) from David Jones Suzuki.

The time has come for athletes to begin mapping out summer training regimes to prepare for the David Jones Suzuki New Zealand School Triathlon Championship in Whanganui in March.

Entries are now open for the event scheduled for March 30-31, 2017.

The event will feature around 600 10-18 year olds competing in triathlons and aquathons over the two days.

"As well as competitors, the event will attract families, coaches and supporters and is a fantastic opportunity to showcase our beautiful city and it's amazing sporting facilities," principal sponsor David Jones Suzuki Gareth Jones said.

"David Jones Motors is very proud to be the principal sponsor of the Triathlon New Zealand Secondary School Champs. This is a great opportunity to showcase Whanganui to our athletes and guests from all over New Zealand. We wish all the competitors the best of luck and enjoy your stay in our beautiful city," Jones said.

The organisation of the event is a partnership between Sport Whanganui, Whanganui Triathlon Club and Triahtlon NZ and already has huge community involvement, including local iwi, businesses and partners.

Alongside the naming sponsor are the age group sponsors, Mitre 10 MEGA Wanganui, Jurgens Demolition, Traffic Safe NZ and Mud Ducks.

Due to the scale of the event there will be a road closure in place during competition. Thursday and Friday will see road closure from the corner of Taupo Quay and Market Place down to Glasgow Street, including the Dublin Street Bridge.

"Although a road closure can be somewhat disruptive to motorists we know the Whanganui community will appreciate that it is only temporary and the benefits of our city hosting this event far outweighs the short term inconvenience," event organiser Rachel O'Connor from Sport Whanganui said.

Event partner Whanganui Triahtlon Club is offering a summer training programme which aims to help athletes prepare for the event. The programme, which includes weekly running, cycling and swimming sessions, are designed to help anyone from serious competitors to those wanting to give it a go.

Contact Rachel O'Connor at Sport Whanganui on 06 349 2318 or rachel@sportwhanganui.co.nz for a training programme.