Auto & General Cross Triathlon returns to Steyn City for the third consecutive year
They rode, swam and cycled their way to success – and at the final stages of the third Auto & General Cross Triathlon, glory went to Adriaan Myburgh
(T: 1:50:51) and Nicolette Griffioen (T: 2:07:47), who took first place in the men’s and women’s individual races respectively.
When this exciting, one of a kind, event was first launched two years ago, it was with the aim of making the challenging sport of triathlon more accessible for Gauteng athletes, who typically have to travel far distances to take part.
It also introduced an element of flexibility, making it possible to enter shorter distances. Geared specifically towards first time triathletes and families who wish to take part as a team, entrants in this version of the race participate in a 300m swim, 15km cycle and 3,5km run. Even friends and colleagues can take advantage of the team format, with each member choosing the sporting discipline in which they excel.
This unique format clearly has great appeal, as this third edition of the cross triathlon was greeted with an outstanding uptake: 800 entries had been booked by the beginning of this year, shortly after the event was announced.
Added to this, many participants have booked training sessions at host venue Steyn City, indicating their enthusiasm for the triathlon. Indeed, the venue accounts significantly to its appeal.
“We’re thrilled to have given South African athletes the chance to give of their best once more. This is fast becoming one of the most highly anticipated events on the South African tri-sporting calendar, and it’s an honour to be part of it,” says Johanni Jennings, Head of Marketing, Auto & General Insurance.
Steven Louw, CEO of Steyn City Properties, shares his excitement. “We are very proud of the facilities which make it possible for us to hold the cross triathlon every year,” he says. These amenities include a 300m lagoon, 45km floodlit promenade and 50km MTB trail, which are frequently used by residents seeking to improve their fitness, wellbeing and mental health. Additionally, Steyn City’s excellent security measures mean that they are able to fit in a workout session with complete peace of mind, night or day.
Louw was, himself, one of the participants in this year’s event. “Last year’s triathlon looked like so much fun that I didn’t want to sit on the sidelines!” he says. Louw and his team took advantage of the Auto & General Cross Triathlon’s flexible format: while he completed the run, his teammates swam and cycled.
Among fellow competitors were Rozanne McKenzie, co-host of the Drive with Rob and Roz on Jacaranda FM. “It’s wonderful to be back at Steyn City!” she said. “Last year was my first cross triathlon, and it was a truly wonderful experience. I’m looking forward to this year’s challenge!” Another famous face was that of Thando ‘Thabooty’ Thabete, presenter of 947’s Drive Time, with her colleague Matt!
Adding to the vibe this year was commentary extraordinaire MC Paul Kaye, who brought his enormous energy and passion for endurance sport to the triathlon. Paul’s experience as lead commentator at Iron Man events around the world ensured he was able to bring passion and excitement to the event’s proceedings.
“We look forward to more fun, more competition and more PBs next year!” Louw says.
For more information, visit www.crosstriathlon.co.za
Auto & General Cross Triathlon returns to Steyn City for the third consecutive year https://t.co/Aci0yBpFjy #ArriveAlive #InsuranceChat #Triathlon @AutoandGeneral pic.twitter.com/VQfb8BVKdY
– Arrive Alive (@_ArriveAlive) February 26, 2024
