With the announcement of the Challenge Cairns triathlon a small group of six Port Douglas locals are going to take the challenge head on.
 
Led by Nick Carling of Actin Fitness, the Tri Port triathlon group will be training to compete in both full distance (3.8km swim, 180km bike ride, 42km run) and half distance events in June.
 
“This is the biggest sporting event to hit Cairns and it’s great for Port Douglas because the bike course comes right through town. What better way to celebrate the day than by cheering on locals as they grind through the tough course?” Nick said.

The 'Tri Port Challengers' are Nick Carling, James Long, Lucy Forbes, Chelsea Walk, Alan Porteous, and Kate Houlahan, and all are keen to promote Port Douglas to the world.

"We want to put a local face to a local event. It's important have representation from our town," Alan said.

"We want to steal some of the thunder from Cairns," James added.

The Tri Port Challengers are looking for a major sponsor to help them with team race kits, and minor sponsors to assist with nutritional aids, accessories and other gear.

“This is a great opportunity for local businesses to get involved with this huge event. We will be out there on the course for up to 15 hours, there will be TV coverage right through the race plus Port Douglas is going to be alive with thousands of supporters.” Nick said.

Sponsors will also gain exposure during the 30 week training program the team will be undertaking in the lead up to the event.

"We'll be training one or two hours a day, six days a week starting with the Lake Placid Triathlon this Saturday," said Lucy.

While most of the team agree that the gruelling 3.8km swim will be the hardest part of the event, they are looking forward to the 180km ride along the Captain Cook Highway where participants will undertake two laps of a Cairns to Port return circuit.
 
Tri Port would like to encourage potential sponsors, and any other locals interested in racing the event, whether it’s as an individual or a team, to contact Nick Carling on 0410 094 283 or email info@actinfitness.com.au.