The triathlon returned in 2017, after a five-year break, and organisers say it is set to build itself back as one of the “must” do country triathlons in NSW.

Event director Paul Humphreys, of H Events, said there were some big changes coming up for the 2018 triathlon at Morpeth on November 4.

Competitors will have the choice of three triathlon distances to choose from this year a unique fun run with options including relays.

The Maitand Triathlon started in 1994 and was staged until 2011 at Morpeth. The event has played host to some very famous triathletes with Peter Robertson, Belinda Grainger, Craig Alexander, Brendan and Melanie Sexton, all hitting the course in its history.

The event has played host to State Championships and also been home to local and regional competitions between local clubs, Maitland, Tomaree, Newcastle and Singleton.

This year the triathlon events will offer a shorter Sprint distance with 750m swim, 20km cycle and 5km run. There will be an Olympic/Standard distance including a 1500m swim, 40km cycle and 10km run or the hard-core triathletes will line up for the 2000m swim, 60km ride and 15km run.

If local sports people are not up for the long endurance events, they can line up for a run only option, which will include a 10km run that can be done in relays of 2.5km.

“We want local triathletes to race at a high standard over a short and long course, without having to travel,” Humphreys said.

Being only two hours up the M1 from Sydney, Morpeth has been a popular race venue for many Sydney and Central Coast triathletes.

“We trust these changes will really make it worth someone’s time to travel to the event as a warm up for one of the long course races around the state.”

With the support of naming rights sponsor, Quarry Mining, the event is also expected to attract a large number of both novice and elite competitors.

Quarry Mining is committed to promoting health and fitness within their team and will also enter a large team in the event.

The company’s marketing manager and local triathlete Peter Hodgson said their team was looking forward to the event, which has created plenty of comradery and team work.

“It is great when work get togethers can be about being active and supporting local events,” Hodgson said.

Just after the triathlon will be a 10km run, where runners can opt to do all four laps of the course, or be part of a relay.  This alternative is expected to attract a strong field and is a perfect event for support crew and family members without the need to kit up for a full triathlon.

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