The second leg of the Riverina Tri-Series has the distinction of being the only offering an Olympic distance category and Temora Running and MultiSport (RAMS) club vice president Peter Harper is expecting a healthy turnout.

“We’re the only race in the Riverina with an Olympic category and it’s getting more and more popular every year,” Harper said.

“There’s only been about 50 online registrations so far but that’s what we usually have around this time and most people tend to register on the day.”

Harper dispelled potential fears over Lake Centenary’s condition and said the slight drop in water levels would actually benefit weaker swimmers in the field.

“It hasn’t impacted the swim at all, which is great news, and we sent someone out to test the course earlier this week.”

“It’s probably a good year to do it if you’re not a strong swimmer – you’ll be able to stand up in most parts of the course now.”

There’s extra incentive for the local crowd with Temora RAMS offering $500 to the school that contributes the most participants.

“It’s just a fun challenge between the five schools here for the most entries – it can be students, parents and teachers,” Harper said.

Gerald Wild was a standout last year, breaking the previous record by almost 13 minutes in the event’s biggest ever field.

READ MORE