Henri Schoeman, Bridget Theunissen Win South Africa’s First-Ever Splash Tri Dash

The inaugural Splash Tri Dash took place at Amanzimtoti Main Beach on Sunday, 25 August, supported by Sapphire Coast Tourism, and was a massive success, attracting hundreds of spectators and some of the country’s top competitors. The titles were taken by two of South Africa’s best triathletes: Henri Schoeman (32), the Olympic bronze medallist from 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.

About the Splash Tri Dash

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 inspired by the hugely successful international Super League Triathlon racing format. Competitors, both individuals and teams, participated in the 3x3 repeat triathlon, starting with a 200m ocean swim, followed by a 3km bike, and finishing with a 1km run along the promenade. Athletes competed for a share of the R40,000 prize purse, while all entrants received a free bacon and egg roll, a goody pack filled with vouchers, samples, treats, and a Day Pass for Splash. In addition, 10% of all entry fees were donated to Operation Bobbi Bear and SPCA Amanzimtoti.

Top Performances

Henri Schoeman emerged victorious in the individual race and managed to pip the 1st team (Toti Lifeguards A) to the finish line. Bridget Theunissen claimed the ladies’ title and secured 3rd place overall, just behind upcoming junior Nathan Foster.

Reflecting on the race, Schoeman said it was a tricky start in the surf but that he soon made up ground during 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 added that the event was a great success, with more people coming out than 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 become an annual feature on the sporting events calendar.”

A Positive Outlook for the Future

Race Director Glen Gore expressed his delight with the turnout and overall race experience:“The athletes gave us some positive feedback, and when an athlete like 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, Sapphire Coast Tourism, and all event sponsors, including Spur, Edgars Clinique, Splash Waterworld, Raging Rapids Water Slides, 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 their assistance on the day.

Romy Wenzel of Sapphire Coast Tourism praised the event, saying, “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 here.

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Press Release Submitted By:

• Event: Splash Tri Dash
• Contact Person: Not provided
• Contact Email: Not provided
• Website: www.sapphirecoasttourism.co.za

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