THE COURSE

The swim is two loops of the unique 1.9km swim course enjoyed originally by the Gauntlet competitors for the first time in 2013. Hailed by some competitors as ‘‘the best open water triathlon swim ever experienced’ the swim course leaves from the Italianate loggia taking competitors down the length of the main lake before passing the Japanese tea house and heading into the scenic river section. This tributary of the River Eden wraps around the estate’s ‘16 Acre Island’ allowing spectators to watch and cheer on competitors from only a few metres away.

There is no need to wear shoes to the swim start as the walk from transition is a mixture of grass and paving, bringing shoes down to the start would risk them being lost. All competitors will have 2 hours 20 minutes to complete the swim course, plus a further 10 minutes for transition (DNF if not left T1 by 08:30).

There will be a half way stage at the loggia steps where a fully stocked feed station will be accessible from the water.

Checklist

– Timing Chip

– Goggles

– Wetsuits - These are likely to be compulsory but a final decision will be provided at the race briefing

– Floats or any other swimming ‘aids’ are not permitted during the swim, although calf guards will be permitted

On exit from the swim there will be a table with labeled personal items (i.e inhalers, glasses) that you may put on there before you start.

Swimmers will be electronically counted into and out of the water for additional safety.