The inaugural Splash Tri Dash which took place at Amanzimtoti Main Beach on Sunday, 25 August, supported by Sapphire Coast Tourism, was a massive success, attracting hundreds of spectators and some of the country’s top competitors. The titles were taken by two of the country’s best triathletes; Henri Schoeman (32) the Olympic bronze medallist in 2016, and Event Organiser Bridget Theunissen (22), a reserve Olympian who is also set to represent South Africa in the short-distance triathlon at the U23 World Championships in Spain.
The Splash Tri Dash – presented by Splash Waterworld in association with Raging Rapids Water Slides and the Thirsty Whale Sports and Cocktail Bar – is a lap-racing event based on the hugely successful international Super League Triathlon racing. Individuals and teams competed in the 3×3 repeat triathlon, starting with a 200m ocean swim, a 3km bike, and a 1km run on the promenade – aiming for a share of the R40 000 prize purse. Entrants also received a free bacon and egg roll, and a goody pack jammed with some great vouchers, samples, treats and a Day Pass for Splash. 10% of all entry fees were donated to Operation Bobbi Bear and SPCA Amanzimtoti.
Henri Schoeman took honours in the individual race, as well as pipping the 1st team (Toti Lifeguards A) to the finish line. Bridget Theunissen took the ladies’ title and came 3rd overall, just behind upcoming junior, Nathan Foster.
Commenting after the race, Schoeman said it was a tricky start on the surf but he soon made up ground in the biking section: “Exciting race and format in South Africa! I love this kind of racing and it’s so good for the development of our juniors and triathlon.”
Theunissen described the race as a ‘great success, with more people coming out than we even anticipated!’.
“It’s a quick race, spectator-friendly, and a really exciting day out for everyone! The sea was quite rough, so only those who were competent enough could swim on the day, with the alternative being to swim in the tidal pool which was a safer option for the younger competitors. The feedback was really positive and we’re hoping that the Splash Tri Dash can be an annual feature on the sporting events calendar,” she said.
Race Director, Glen Gore, said he was delighted with the turnout and overall race experience: “The athletes gave us some positive feedback, and when an athlete the like of Henri Schoeman, who has raced all around the globe, tells you he had fun, that pretty much makes your day! Thanks to Team Theunissen and Jace Govender from the Beach Office for truly making this event happen. We’re coming back in 2025 bigger and better for sure!”
Also showing support on the day was the Princess Charlene of Monaco Foundation with local ambassadors Mhlengi Gwala and Terence Parkin competing in the event. Theunissen extended her thanks to the foundation, to Sapphire Coast Tourism, as well as all event sponsors, Spur, Edgars Clinique, Splash Waterworld in association with Raging Rapids Water Slides and the Thirsty Whale Sports and Cocktail Bar, Virgin Active, M-projects, Reclam, Sir Juice, We-Swim, 32gi, Aquelle, SAB, Andrew Jones, and Fitch and Leeds. She also thanked Glen Gore, the marshals, the Amanzimtoti Lifeguards, and Beach Management for availing their assistance on the day.
Romy Wenzel of Sapphire Coast Tourism said this was another great reflection of the region’s event-hosting potential: “With our great climate, beautiful beaches, and welcoming communities, the Sapphire Coast remains a top events destination! A huge congratulations to all the event organisers and participants on a fantastic event, and we look forward to this becoming a regular feature.”
2024 Splash Tri Dash Men’s Results
1. Henri SCHOEMAN – 00:35:20
2. Nathan FOSTER – 00:37:23
3. Darryn PURTELL – 00:38:16
4. Oliver DELPORT – 00:40:56
5. Ernest PHUNGULA – 00:40:57
6. Philip THERON – 00:41:33
7. Travis HEWITT – 00:41:36
8. Scott CLEMMETT – 00:42:47
9. Nkosi MBATHA – 00:44:31
10. Joshua CAMPBELL- 00:44:57
2024 Splash Tri Dash Women’s Results
1. Bridget THEUNISSEN – 00:38:02
2. Taylor FOSTER – 00:43:28
3. Helen TAYLOR – 00:43:37
4. Mikaela JONSSON – 00:47:20
5. Zee MKIZE – 00:48:05
6. Lara WATTS – 00:48:16
7. Alexis HEWITT – 00:49:23
8. Ava MOORE – 00:49:50
9. Abi MEINEKE – 00:50:17
10. Georgia HEWITT – 00:52:44
For more information about the Sapphire Coast and its diverse tourism offerings, visit www.sapphirecoasttourism.co.za or the Sapphire Coast Tourism Facebook page.
CLICK HERE to submit your press release to MyPR.co.za.
Author: Agnes Matladi from Olivia Jones Communications on behalf of Sapphire Coast Tourism.
Watch a Henri Schoeman, Bridget Theunissen Win South Africa’s First-Ever Splash Tri Dash video:
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