The Byron Bay Triathlon is one of the most popular in Australia, with triathletes travelling far and wide to compete. No doubt, spending time in beautiful Byron Bay is all part of the attraction!
The Byron Bay Triathlon is an Olympic distance and not-for-profit event that attracts around 1,500 competitors each year. And rumour has it, it’s one of the most popular triathlons on the east coast. The course involves a 1.5-kilometre ocean swim in the clear blue waters of the bay, a 40-kilometre bike ride through rainforest and hinterland, and finishes off with a sprint along the Byron Bay foreshore.
The Byron Bay Triathlon started back in 1996. It’s a fixture in the calendar for the Mother’s Day weekend, marking the end of the competition season for triathletes from Queensland and New South Wales. It’s also considered a bit of a celebration weekend for everyone involved. This year, the event will include a Mother’s Day Fun Run and ocean swim. So even if you’re not competing in the main event, you can still enjoy being part of the experience!
Every year local community groups volunteer to help manage the event, and in return, they receive a small donation. Previous groups involved include the Byron Bay Scouts, Bangalow Men’s Shed, Byron Bay AFL Club, Rainbow Dragon Boaters and Byron Youth Service. In addition, the Family Centre will receive the proceeds of this year’s Mother’s Day Fun Run, distributing the funds to the many local people affected by the recent floods.
On top of the fundraising element of the Byron Bay Triathlon, the event also creates jobs for locals and youth workers. Typical roles include labouring, building crew, course marshals, gift packers, registration staff and run leg managers.
Events such as this play a huge role in our town’s economy. Last year the Byron Bay Triathlon attracted 1,640 participants. 17 per cent had never visited Byron Bay before, 69 per cent were from out of town, and 78 per cent said they’d be returning for a holiday within 18-months. The economic data is significant too, coming in at an average spend of $350 per person.
The Byron Bay Triathlon appeals to all ages and fitness levels. So, if you love a challenge, or you’d just like to get involved in the camaraderie that makes tri so much fun, why not put the Byron Bay Triathlon in next year’s diary!
Visit byrontri.org to find out more.